Chapter One: Seven Rules and the Eighth Chair

“After midnight, clear the floor, take inventory, and charge the mascots.” Old Cai, the daytime maintenance chief, pushed a ring of brass keys into his hand. The man's palm was wet with sweat. “Most importantly, read the employee manual. Don't assume it's part of the show.” “A horror restaurant with horror-themed orientation?” Old Cai did not laugh. He glanced at the central stage. Three animatronics stood behind the curtain. Leon, a golden-maned lion, held a microphone. Bonnie the rabbit chef carried a plastic pizza. Lulu, a bird singer in a red sequined dress, hung her head. Their eyelids were half closed, but all three pairs of glass eyes had shifted a few degrees toward Zhou Ran.