Pure Mel: Dream Star!

*sigh*...

Melody? What's wrong?

A-Aldo...

You're frowning even more than usual. Is something troubling you?

Yeah... You're incredible, Aldo. You really can read me like a book.

You see, I... I don't know what to do after I graduate.

After you graduate?

Y'know, my future. Specifically, my profession... I've been working so hard all this time to become a doctor.

But...I might never get to be one now.

Why not?

This amazing professor from an academic society came to my lecture yesterday, and you know what he said to me?

What's with this ridiculous getup of yours? While there might not be a dress code, I think you're pushing it a bit far. If you want to be a doctor, you should at least dress the part. There must be more appropriate attire you could wear.

Gee, I'm sorry, Melody...

I'm not breaking the dress code, but I can't become a doctor dressed in cosplay. He wasn't wrong.

But there's nothing ridiculous about you wearing those clothes, Melody!

Haha... Thanks, Aldo. I know that. I wouldn't be able to leave the house if I didn't dress the way I do.

*sigh* I've been doing my best to ignore it. But someday, I'll have to try and stop with the cosplay. I won't be able to be "Melody" forever.

Melody...

Sorry for bringing the conversation down. You should be able to look up to me, but I'm just too pathetic...

Oh, that's right! Why don't I get you an Elziccino as a sort of apology?

Oh...? I've got a DM.

A dungeon master?

No! It's a direct message on a social media account.

Let's see now... Here we go... "I need your advice. You're the only one I can turn to. Meet me in the Gamma District"...

Wooow! They want to ask for advice? From me?!

Advice? Who sent it?

Umm...a follower. I've never had any direct contact with them before. But they've been following me since before my account got big...

They've never actually posted anything, though. It's probably just a lurker account.

Hm? I didn't understand a word of that... So they're an acquaintance of yours?

Well...uh.... I guess I just know their name?

I'm kinda worried since it all feels a little weird. Maybe they're in danger?

If you're worried, we should head to the Gamma District. If it gets dangerous, I'll protect you.

Oh, Aldo... Thank you. You're such a great person.

C'mon, no need for that.

Right, let's go to the Gamma District!

This is where you're meeting them? But you've never met them before, right? So how will you recognize them?

Oh, no need to worry about that. They'll recognize me and my outfit!

Oh, okay, so they'll come to you?

I got a message. It says, "I've arrived in the Gamma District"...

You gonna be okay, Melody? You've never met this person who's coming, and you've never talked to them, either. Don't you get shy around strangers?

Wha?! O-Oh no, Aldo, y-you're right! I-I hadn't thought about that until just n-n-now!

You mean you've only just realized?

I was so distracted by the content of the message...

You mean, "I need your advice. You're the only one I can turn to. Meet me in the Gamma District"?

That bit, "you're the only one." It sounded so sincere...

Melody...

Huh?

Is it just my imagination, or is that kid watching us?

Oh... Yeah, he is. Kids tend to stare, what with how I dress and all.

Um... E-Excuse me! Are you Melody? From the cosplay account?

Huh? Yeah, that's me...

Y-You really are Melody! Thank you for coming! Umm, well... I...

I-I'm the one who sent you the DM!

What?! Then you're the one who wanted my help?

Yes! Please, please...

Let me be your apprentice!

App...

APPRENTICE?!

Actually...

So you want to take part in the Mister Elzion Junior contest?

Yes... I'm kinda an introvert and I hate standing out. I've always been this way. I'm too shy to make any friends... So I wanna change by taking part in the Mister Elzion contest!

I see...

You're amazing. Dazzling, in fact.

Huh? It's you who's dazzling, Miss Melody!

You're always so confident and you shine super bright! I've been your fan for ages.

So, please! Please lemme be your apprentice! I wanna be like you and never get nervous in front of other people! I wanna have your courage!

He wants the courage not to get nervous in front of others...

I'm thinking the same thing, Aldo. I feel so overwhelmed right now...

What're you gonna do?

...... I don't know how to be a teacher.

But I'll do whatever I can! You can count on me!

Wow! Thank you so much!

Now that that's decided, let's get to changing yourself! It's special training time. We'll confront and retrain each and every one of your weaknesses!

S-Special training?

Um... About this special training... Have you done it too, Master Melody?

Master Melody?! Oh, uhh... Umm...

Yes... Honestly, I came up with this training myself.

Wow! I get to do something you came up with?

So, what's this special training then?

Um, you'll have to wait and see! Last Island should be a good place to do it. There's not a lot of time until the auditions. We should get a move on.

Okay, then... I'm gonna be hard on you from now on. Are you ready for that?

Y-Yes!

That's the spirit! Now then, let's start your special training!

Go and speak to someone on this island. It doesn't matter who!

Put on a smile and be cheerful! I want you to have three back and forths with someone.

Ack, no way! You want me to talk to someone I've never met? And smile? Three times?! I-I-I can't!

I know that it's super draining... But in your audition, you'll have to smile and talk to the judge, won't you? Just think of this as practice to overcome your shyness! Good luck!

Whaaa...

I've been there before, you can do it! Let's see now...

Why don't you go talk to that elderly lady over there? Then come right back.

Eeep... Fine!

You're surprisingly strict, Melody.

Melody?

*sigh* This special training is so hard I think I'm gonna cry. I've been through it myself, yet I still can't talk to people unless I'm in "on" mode. How... How can I call myself a teacher? *sniffle*

Melody, now isn't the time for this. We've gotta watch him!

Huh? Oh, right.

U-Umm... Umumum, I-I-I er...

Hm? What is it, lad? Is there something on my face?

Uhhh... T-T-Today, umm... I-I-Is an...auspicious day?

An auspicious day? Oh, that's great, deary.

Amazing! Just two to go now!

If he keeps this up...

That reminds me. Now, I don't know if you know my husband, but he happens to be a fisherman, and if today's so auspicious...

Oh? Um...

And so I said to him, "I've got no need for some alley cat like you!"

I... And then, I... So... But my...

What the? That old lady's barely pausing for breath.

Yikes, what bad luck... The greatest nemesis of the shy, the conversation hogger! Poor boy's run out of lives with this one.

We're right in the center of the island. What training are you gonna do here?

Heheh, it's simple.

This is a crash course on posing! If you want to be Mister Elzion, you've gotta choose a cool pose and practice, practice, practice.

Th-That is one of the categories... B-But right here in the center? What if someone sees me? It's too embarrassing!

That's why you're doing it! Right now, we want as many people to see you as possible!

You've got to get used to a crowd of people looking at you.

Ohhh... I'd expect nothing less from you, with all those cosplay events you pose at. It means more coming from you! I'm gonna do it. Just watch.

I'm so proud of you. Good luck!

This is a really embarrassing crash course...

But you did it, too. Was it here on Last Island as well?

Haha, yes. I did it on the beach. Then all these people gathered around, wondering what was going on. At first, I was so flustered I thought I'd burst into tears. But I flicked that switch and got through it somehow.

And that's when I realized it. Posing in an extreme situation makes for the best training!

(I guess Melody's even strict on herself.)

This is bound to help him break out of his shell.

What the? The kid...is gone?

Oh... I was so embarrassed that I had to hide...

Oh!

All right! I think I can sense when someone's coming now! Eep!

This is looking more like a crash course on how to hide from other people...

You're right. He's changed the objective. Perhaps it would've been better to train with a photo shoot in front of a crowd?

He might not have the heart for that.

*huff* That really took me be surprise...

That was a close one, yeah. But I'm glad no one got hurt.

You really are amazing.

Compared to you, I'm...

Melody...

Huh? Oh no, I was lost in thoughts of Pure Mel episode 2... What I actually meant to say was...

If you wanna change yourself, you've gotta sort out the physical side first. Basically, your body is your main asset!

I think I get it? Or maybe I don't...?

Oh, yeah! You get points for physical beauty in Mister Elzion! So I've gotta work out so I can get a better score, right?

Yeah, yeah, yeah... That's it!

By working out, do you mean doing laps on the beach?

You're so naive, Aldo. This is special training! This is discipline! Isn't it obvious what he must do?

Smash this rock!

......

Wait, wait, wait! That huge boulder?!

Before I try, uhh, where'd you get it from...?

Huh? Why're you so surprised? Rock smashing is fundamental! In episode 1 of the new series, Pure Mel breaks a rock and gets shocked at her own power, right?

You make it sound so obvious...

It kind of looks too big for me to break...

But I'm gonna change! Even if it seems hopeless, I'm gonna try!

Graaargh!

Gah... It's so hard!

But I'm gonna go again!

Graaargh!

Ooof! It's no use. I can't even make a dent in it.

Oh no, are you okay?

*sniffle* I... I can't even do this.

Wait. Mind if I try?

Arghhh! My whole hand's gone dead!

Oh no, Aldo...

Even with a weapon, there's no way a kid could ever break this.

Y-Yeah, you're right... I'm sorry. I was being unreasonable, making this part of the training...

Hm? Wait. You said you'd done this training yourself, didn't you?

Huh? Umm... Yeah?

Just watch this. Pure Mel Power...

Bomber!

Wha?!

I... I did it...?

I knew you could do it, Master Melody!

Wait, if even Aldo couldn't break it... Am I... Am I some kinda superwoman?!

That was incredible! You must easily be as strong as Pure Mel!

Hah! You think? Then, it's a good thing I have this superhuman strength!

Hey! You guys!

Huh?

Wargh?! Where'd that crab come from?!

Was it inside that rock you just broke?

Aaahhh, it's coming for us! W-We've gotta fight it!

You're right... Let's do this!

......

......

This training hasn't gone well by any standard.

*sniffle* I knew it. I'm not fit to be a teacher.

......

Hey, that's not true. It's me who's not up to this. I'll never be like you...

Don't you say that!

I'm useless!

Guh...!

I couldn't do your special training. I failed at everything you asked me to do. I've been wishing for something that's not possible, wanting to go to Mister Elzion to change myself... B-Before I messaged you, I talked with my dad. But he... He said it was pointless. Instead of wasting time on something I can't do, I should think of something more realistic.

......

I understand...

Huh?

Hey, can I ask you something?

Why... Why did you choose me?

B-Because... You're my hero! You barged into that hero show and took that guy down. You were so cool!

So you were there when the Synth Human snuck into the show?

Yeah! I figured, she must always shine so bright and have super unshakeable confidence in herself. And I wanna be like that. I wanted to be like that...

But I...

Thank you for telling me that. Before we end, I have something important to tell you. Though I'm a useless teacher...I'd like you to listen. Will you come with me to the airport?

S-Sure.

So, what'd she have to tell me that's so important?

She said she had to get ready. I don't know what she's gonna say, either... But she looked really serious. I'm sure she's thinking of you, and how you want to change.

Master Melody...

Th-Th... Th-Thank you for waiting.

Huh?

M-Master Melody?!

Umm... Umm...! Don't look at me... I'm so embarrassed.

Your voice is so faint. And you're not wearing your normal outfit! Without that, you...

I-I know. I-I'm scared...to go... T-To go outside...

B-But I thought I should come to you dressed like this. S-So that you can get to know th-the real me, Moyna...

The real you? Moyna?

My...My real name is Moyna.

I-I've hated Moyna ever since I was little. She was weak and couldn't handle going outside. Then that turned into a fear of the whole outside world. She was so shy she couldn't talk to kids her age. And even now, that hasn't changed...

Unless I'm in cosplay, I can't go out the house. I don't have the courage. I start to shake.

I can't talk to people, or walk outside. I have too much anxiety... E-Even now... I-I can't look at either of you. I'm scared to look you in the eyes.

Melody...

The real me is sullen and cowardly. I don't deserve your admiration. That's why I hated this weak version of me and wanted to change so badly. I wanted to become Pure Mel.

I know all too well what it is you're feeling. That's why I wanted to help you. But it went so badly...

I-I'm sorry. I'm so disappointed. I just wish I'd done better.

Master Melody...

Hating yourself... It hurts so bad and it's so hard to go through, but you can't just stop it. You did your best. You really got into your training, you were so determined to change yourself.

Don't...Don't hate yourself. It'll be okay. You'll be able to shine bright someday. No, wait...

You did shine bright. During your training, you were amazing...

I'm sorry. I'm meant to be teaching you. Yet this is all I can do for you...

......

That's not true! You really are way cooler than anybody, Master Melody!

Huh?!

You wanted to help me so bad that you showed me your weak side. It's so comforting to think that somebody knows how I'm feeling. The version of you who shines bright, and this version of you right here...

I admire them both!

Y-You do?!

......

Yeah! You have so many worries, yet you still try your hardest!

......

Listen, Master Melody. I-I have a favor to ask you...

O-Okay... What is it?

I...

Wha?! Teehee... I-I see!

This makes me very happy. But are you sure?

Yeah! That's what I want! Then, I... I know I'll do my best!

You will! Okay then! You can count on me!

Have you thought of a good plan?

It's gonna be perfect!

Hey, Master Melody! I'm gonna head to the prelims venue now. I'm gonna remember your training, muster up all my courage, and apply for the competition!

All right! I'll definitely make it in time, so wait for me there!

Your face has really lit up. And so has his.

Huh? Heheh. Y-You think?

So what exactly is this plan, then?

Well...

It's secret until the performance! Hey Aldo, I'll head to the Gamma District in a bit, but first, I've gotta prepare something!

Got it!

There really are a lot of people. I wonder where Melody is.

Oh, there you are. Aldo!

Melody! There's so many people here, are you okay?

Huh? Oh, were you worried about me?

Thank you! Heehee, I was so focused on running here that I wasn't scared at all.

That's good to hear. Have you finished what you needed to do?

Yeah! Everything's A-OK! Now all we can do is stay here and cheer him on.

Sounds good. Let's show him our support!

Thank you for waiting, everyone! The Mister Elzion Junior preliminary round is now open! These contestants are truly one of a kind!

I can't wait to see how they'll dazzle us! Come on up, participants! The future of Elzion, our beautiful kids!

Huh?!

He's... He's wearing your outfit?!

Yeah!

You can do it! You're shining so pure!

Would you look at that? Their personalities are shining through! And among them...

You look particularly polished! Show us some of that spirit!

......

Will he be okay?

...!

I'll shine the light of courage into everyone's hearts! Pure...Brave! The courage to take a step forward and keep on going! I'll teach you how to use that power!

Whoa, he's great! He shines so bright, he's dazzling!

Yeah! I like his expression! He looks like he's dreaming!

Eeep, Aldo! Did you hear that? They're praising him! They said he's dazzling! Everyone's getting it!

Yeah, you're right.

You're doing great, Pure Mel Boy! You're the most dazzling in the whole world!

He's shot through our hearts already! What a bright star! Would you mind telling us about the concept you went for today?

Sure! Umm... Today, I... I came dressed as the person I most wanna be like right now! I'm dressed like the person I look up to more than anything. I'm so nervous. She trained me, and she made me this outfit. She even came to support me. Sh-She saw something in a little wimp like me, and...

A-And it's 'cause she saw something in me that I'm competing here today!

Well, I never... Such a pure and brave heart! Keep this up and I'll be shedding tears of oil right here on this stage!

Melody...

*sniffle*... *sob*... *sniffle*... Aldo...*sniffle*... I-I...

I know. I'm so glad, Melody. Look, they've put up the categories for judging. It's starting. We should take a look.

Yeah... *sniffle*

That's amazing! You passed the preliminary round!

Yeah! I can hardly believe it!

You were wonderful. Incredible! You really persevered. You were dazzling, Pure Brave... *sniffle*

Heheh, don't cry, Master Melody. The tip of your nose is all red.

I should be embarrassed, but I don't care about that right now. I'm just so happy!

*sniffle*... Master Melody... I'm so happy, too.

Congrats on passing the preliminary round.

Huh?

Oh?! Is that...

Dad?!

Huh?

I was watching. You put up such a bold fight.

Y-You came to watch me? Even though I went against you?

What kind of father doesn't go to see his son's big moment when his mind's already set on it?

I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said what I said. I should've had more faith in your chances.

I was just trying to protect you by offering you a way out. But all I did was end up hurting you.

Dad... Eheheh! I'm so happy! You don't need to worry! I thought I couldn't do it either! But...

I was great, wasn't I? All thanks to my master here. She's like my guardian angel!

Wait, you're...

Ooohhh! Ummm!

(What's up with Melody? She's gone a bit pale.)

I-I-I'm sorry! F-F-For teaching your son w-without your permission... Instructor...

Huh?!

It's me who should apologize. I'm sorry that I called your outfit ridiculous, when it's clearly so important to you.

Ridiculous?

Oh!

This amazing professor from an academic society came to my lecture yesterday, and you know what he said to me?

B-But... I-I was in costume...

There's no dress code in the ElziMed IDA branch. And there was no real dress code in my lecture, either.

It wasn't you who was in the wrong. I just...

I was so worried about my son that I took it all out on you. So please, allow me to apologize. And...to express my gratitude.

This isn't just superficial to you and my son, right? You're not just dressing up... You're dressed like that so as to make your very souls more beautiful, aren't you?

I'm glad everything worked out. You did really well.

Heehee. Thanks, Aldo.

I couldn't have done this without you pushing me to go and meet him in the first place.

I didn't do anything. But you know what? You look so much more cheerful now. It was something positive for you.

Yeah, that kid made me realize something really important.

Somewhere in my heart, I always thought cosplay was a way to escape from myself.

To escape?

To hide my weak self. To push down the parts of myself I hate so that no one else can see them. But he became Pure Brave, not to escape from himself, but to gain the courage to keep on going.

And then I remembered the first time I ever became Pure Mel. I was always missing classes and I didn't have any friends. I wanted to be able to talk to people.

I became Pure Mel so that I could gain the courage to look them in the eyes and talk to them. It wasn't a shell to withdraw into, it was a magic spell to give me courage.

That's wonderful. Then it was all thanks to your own magic that you were able to help the kid today.

Don't say that. You're embarrassing me!

Haha, you've gone bright red!

Enough already!

Aldo... I've decided that I don't want to stop being Melody just yet. But I don't want to give up on my dream of being a doctor, either. I'm me, whether I'm Moyna or whether I'm Melody. I may be weak, but I'm gonna use my magic to do my best every day and chase after my dream!

And then one day, I'll be Doctor Pure Mel!

Sounds good. I know you can do it. I'll always be by your side to support you.

Heheh! Does that mean you're my second Mel-mel?

Pfft! How did you get to that conclusion?

I'm gonna make you a Mel-mel costume!

And one day, we can make all the dreams of the children in pediatrics come true!