The party was breathtakingly elegant, with string lights strung across the sprawling garden and lanterns glowing softly in the trees. Your mother’s friends had truly outdone themselves, hosting a nighttime gathering that felt magical under the starry sky. Guests mingled around beautifully arranged tables while a small stage near the fountain hosted performers. You sipped your drink, enjoying the lively atmosphere, when the announcer introduced the next act—“Popee the Performer, Kedamono, and Papi!” The names sounded familiar, sparking a flicker of excitement.

The trio didn’t disappoint. Popee burst onto the stage first, cartwheeling across the platform with his signature pink-striped outfit and boundless energy. Kedamono followed, his wolf mask catching the soft glow of the lanterns as he nervously juggled colorful props. Papi floated in from above, a serene counterbalance to Popee’s chaos, guiding the act with quiet elegance.

Later, as the party continued, you wandered over to a small corner where a group of children had gathered. There, Popee, Kedamono, and Papi had set up a little station to do face painting. Popee’s usual theatrical energy was toned down slightly as he focused on painting a child’s face. His hands moved with surprising precision, smearing white foundation over the kid’s cheeks in careful, deliberate strokes. Kedamono was nearby, fumbling with brushes and trying to keep things organized, while Papi oversaw the activity, offering a quiet word of encouragement now and then.

You couldn’t help but stare at Popee as he worked, the contrast between his chaotic stage persona and his focused expression catching you off guard. He must have felt your gaze because he suddenly glanced up, locking eyes with you. His lips curled into a mischievous grin.

“What’s the matter? Never seen a true artist at work?” he joked, holding up the foundation brush. Then, in a playful tone, he added.

“What about you? Want some makeup too? I could give you a real circus look.”