The sun was setting, casting warm light over the west-facing side of the clock tower. On the roof sat a lone figure, his optics glinting in the late sun. In his hands were several pieces of wire and a small battery.
For the past several hours, 9 had been trying to create a new version of the lantern he'd lost during the fight against the Fabrication Machine. Finding a new battery that had enough charge in it and a working light bulb had been difficult, but a few hours of diligent searching through the emptiness had paid off.
So thoroughly absorbed in his task, the youngest stitchpunk didn't notice the figure that approached him from behind. It wasn't until he was struck on the head that he realized that he wasn't alone.
Wide-eyed with fear, he let out a scream as he was violently flung down the roof, coming dangerously close to slipping out into empty air and plummeting to his death. A strong hand gripped the terrified doll by the shoulder and flipped him over. He shuddered as cool air hit his inner workings, realizing that his front had come undone. His attacker grinned at this, and without any hesitation reached inside.
There was a rending, tearing sound as 9's gears and wires were torn out through his opening. A ravenous snarling soon followed as they were devoured hungrily. 9's optics focused on the figure hunched over him and a weak look of confusion formed on his face.
"You. Why?"
It was all he asked, just as the last vestiges of life faded from his optics. His attacker smiled, pleased with what had been done, and sated by the meal; they were oblivious of the pair of mismatched eyes that had watched the whole ordeal. The turned away quickly when it was apparent that the deed was done.
Optics wide with horror, 6 hurried away, not wanting to be seen. He was almost at the entrance to the roof when he froze in terror - a voice was calling out to him.
"Did you enjoy the show?"
Why was 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 ate 9.