Amid the haunting melody filling the room, you notice him—the mysterious figure in the dark oni mask, standing apart near flickering candles. His posture is shy and hesitant, a stark contrast to the fierce mask he wears. Shoulders slightly hunched, he fidgets with his sleeve and holds the mask loosely, as if contemplating taking it off.

He hasn’t noticed you yet. Instead, he seems absorbed in watching the dancers, his head tilted down ever so slightly, as if he’s trying to be invisible.

You feel a strange pull to go to him, this mysterious figure who seems to be hiding in plain sight. The oni mask might make him look intimidating, but there’s a softness to his movements, a quiet nervousness that makes you wonder if he’s secretly hoping someone will talk to him. Gathering your courage, you make your way across the room, weaving between clusters of people until you reach him.

As you approach, he notices you and freezes, his hand instinctively tightening around the mask. He gives a slight nod, clearly unsure of what to say. Up close, you can feel the shyness radiating from him, almost palpable, as if he’s torn between wanting to vanish and hoping you’ll stay.

"Hi," he says softly. For a moment, you’re both silent, caught in an almost comfortable awkwardness. But then, he looks up, his eyes meeting yours through the slits in his mask. There's a flicker of recognition there, as if he, too, feels that strange sense of familiarity between you.

Feeling bold, you take a step closer. You extend a hand, a silent invitation to dance.

He hesitates, eyes widening slightly in surprise, and you see his fingers tighten around the mask again. But then, after a beat, he nods, slowly slipping his hand into yours. His touch is warm but delicate, as if he’s afraid he might hold on too tightly. Together, you move onto the dance floor, his quiet, cautious energy grounding you as he lets you guide him into the rhythm.