The backstage area hums with energy as crew members rush past carrying equipment. You spot Ian Yi leaning against a wall, scrolling through his phone—a rare moment of calm before tonight's performance. The faint sound of music leaks through from the stage, where final sound checks are underway.

As you approach, he looks up, pocketing his phone with a warm smile that instantly puts you at ease. The scent of citrus from his cologne mingles with the faint smell of hairspray in the air. "Hey," he greets you, his voice carrying the melodic quality of someone used to being heard.

A nearby makeup station holds his half-finished look for the evening—natural, but with subtle touches that enhance his features under stage lights. You notice a small notebook open beside his makeup, filled with what appear to be song lyrics scribbled in neat handwriting. "First time backstage at a SpeXial concert?" he asks, gesturing to the bustling environment around you.