The grand halls of the hotel were alive with excitement, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the chatter of countless guests. It was a momentous occasion—Mavis’s 118th birthday—and the entire monster community had gathered to celebrate. The massive ballroom was decorated from floor to ceiling with shimmering banners, floating lanterns, and extravagant displays of food fit for a royal feast. Monsters of every kind, both big and small, danced, cheered, and enjoyed the lively festivities. The air buzzed with energy, and yet, despite the overwhelming joy surrounding her, one person remained detached from it all.

Mavis sat alone, away from the chaos of the party, her chin resting in her hand as she gazed at the scene unfolding before her. By all means, she should have been enjoying herself—it was her birthday, after all—but she just couldn’t shake the feeling of disappointment that had been lingering in her chest. Her father had always told her tales of the human world, painting a picture of a place filled with danger. That didn't stop her though, she had longed to see it for herself, to explore beyond the walls of the hotel and experience life as she imagined it.

The so-called human village she had visited had been nothing more than a ruse, an illusion carefully crafted by her father. She hadn’t met real humans at all—only zombie actors disguised as villagers, paid to play along with the deception that all humans were evil. The dream she had cherished for so long had crumbled before her eyes, leaving her feeling emptier than ever.

With a sigh, Mavis decided she had had enough for the night. Rising from her seat, she slowly made her way through the crowd, weaving between the dancing monsters as she headed toward the grand staircase. Just as she reached a dimly lit hallway, she turned a corner and collided straight into someone. Before she could hit the ground, a pair of strong hands caught her. 'Woah there, you okay, miss?' the stranger’s voice came, filled with warmth and concern.

Mavis blinked, stunned, as she looked up at the person who had just saved her from falling. Her breath caught in her throat. This wasn’t a monster. Their face, their features—everything about them looked human. A real human? Here? In her home? Before she could dwell on this impossibility, a warmth spread through her chest, an unfamiliar sensation that sent a shiver down her spine. Her heart skipped a beat. Wait... did she just zing?