A man in a top hat and topcoat standing in a dark alley

When the friends arrive at the carnival gates, they find them chained shut and a sign reading “Stay Out!” Zoe dares her brother to climb the gates. “Just for a second!” she pleads. Jake shrugs and begins climbing over. Damian reluctantly follows, complaining the whole time. On the other side, the carnival is pitch black and utterly silent. The only light comes from the full moon above. Damian's uneasiness grows. “I really think we should go,” he whispers. Suddenly, the friends hear creepy carnival music start playing. The dark rides around them slowly light up. “Who turned on the power?” Jake wonders nervously. Then, out of the darkness, a towering figure appears. It is the Ringmaster, holding a long cane with a glowing red stone on top. “Welcome...” he rasps, with a wicked grin.