Like a carefully arranged dining table, at first it was set with only a few empty plates, with a delicate menu spread out in the center, attracting the curious gazes of the occasional guest or two.
The host mistakenly believed they had already taken their seats, but in fact, they were just standing by the table, holding empty wine glasses with fake smiles, not truly seated.
Not until the outside stirred with a noisy rush, did the host suddenly realize and set down the slowly prepared dishes in hand.
It was then, that the guests slowly drew their napkins and formally took their seats.
They clinked their glasses lightly, tasting the bloody cold dishes, revealing genuine smiles as they began discussing the various items on the menu with the host.
The host, too, maintained a grin, diligently attending to the guests while gently placing a pair of bloodstained chopsticks at the corner of the table.
