The basement screen flickered.
Crimson fog rolled across the stage. LED screens displayed a cracked carnival sign: MIDNIGHT CIRCUS.
The lights snapped up—red, gold, amber—revealing nine frozen figures positioned throughout an elaborate set. Weathered carousel horses. Tilted carnival game booths. A massive striped tent backdrop with tears revealing darkness beneath.
Center front, Jisoo stood with arms spread wide, head tilted back.
To his right, Jinwook held a cane across his shoulders, posture relaxed but predatory.
The music started—distorted circus calliope mixed with heavy electronic beats.
Jisoo's voice cut through first, bright and manic:
"Welcome all, to the final showing,
The music's on, and the laughter's growing.
No tickets needed, just your name—
Hold on tight, time to play the game."
