Running a Black Shop in the Escape Game

The latest fully immersive, real-person survival game, February's Death Knell, has taken the world by storm. The unscrupulous shopkeeper Shang Xiaoqiao couldn't wait to join the ranks of players, becoming one of many. In this game, the survival scenario changes every two months. It might be a worm virus crisis in January and February, then, once February's Death Knell rings, the theme for March and April could become the sun going out. One moment you're dancing the tango across a land of lava; the next, a flood might engulf you from all sides. Other players are miserable in the constantly changing disaster zones. Shang Xiaoqiao's eyes light up: What a huge business opportunity! A year later. The seasoned players in the game all warn the newbies: In February's Death Knell, there are two people you must never offend: the powerhouse Wen Baishui and Boss Shang Xiaoqiao. Offend Boss Wen, and he'll beat you until you question your life. Offend Boss Xiaoqiao, and he'll have a bunch of powerhouses, led by Boss Wen, beat you until you wish you could be rebuilt from scratch. Don't ask why. Just look around: the food, drinks, gear, and weapons we use, which of them isn't made by Boss Xiaoqiao? Want a discount? Sure thing. Just be his unpaid bodyguard! 1. A shrewd, beautiful merchant bottom × a powerful top who dotes on his wife 2. No matter what kind of apocalypse package comes along, nothing can stop my burning determination to open shops! 3. The title and blurb are tentative and may be revised slightly.