Rule Horror: The Lost Hotel

[Not signed, completed] • [Cthulhu Mythos × Rule-Based Horror × Parallel Worlds] Two years after graduating, Zhang Rushi has watched one workplace after another go under. Under the weight of financial pressure, a hotel deep in the mountains invites him to an interview. Work for just five days, and he’ll earn a hefty paycheck. • The hotel, abandoned by Them, still runs on its own. Beneath its rules, crazed and chaotic hybrid creatures stir. A gigantic jellyfish carcass has dried into a maze-like building. The wind-up mechanism behind the receptionist goes “creak, creak” as a broken spine hangs down to welcome the guests. At midnight, insects scream and wail in an old man’s voice by your ear. Every night you close your eyes, you’re wagering your life. Esteemed guest, have you ever heard the dead whisper their warnings? Faced with such eerie strangeness, Zhang Rushi couldn’t care less. “I only care how many zeroes are on this month’s paycheck.” • While everyone else searches for an exit, Zhang Rushi grips a tattered brochure and decides to try his luck next door. “I work at Zizai Mountain.” “I will always belong to Zizai Mountain.” “Hello, I’m Zhang Rushi, a local from Zizai Mountain.” “Oh, if you’re lost, you can come spend the night at my hotel.” “Don’t mention it. It’s our little hotel’s pleasure.” “Then, esteemed guest, good night.” “Sweet dreams.”