Ryoji's hand wouldn't reach the mask; once he got close enough, the Joker swept up a hand to grab Ryoji's wrist, maintaining a vice grip and moving it away from his face.

"A cute thought," He said, his voice falling more ominous and not even bothering with its sugary facade. "I am not such pathetic creature like you. You are mankind's destruction, while I am their salvation! Their dreams come true. I am what's 'underneath.'"