Not much to say just yet, since I am uploading this directly after uploading the previous chapter. Kind of said all I needed to say before...uh...enjoy! lol!
Seriously though, I do hope you all enjoy this chapter. I am especially happy with how I reworked this one compared to the previous version. I swear I'm not going to always compare and contrast my two versions, it just makes me happy to see how much I changed as a writer since I started my previous version way back in 2015. Again, I know this isn't perfect and I'm sure I'm gonna look back at this in like another four years and cringe at my writing and what I chose to put, but at this moment I'm proud of myself despite the fact this still isn't perfect! And I can't wait to upload the next chapter when it is done!
Mike let out a cry as he ran into the pizzeria. "I'm here! I'm here!"
Like the previous night, the cleanup crew all froze in what they were doing to give monotonous stares to the nightguard. Mike smiled nervously at their reaction. They all stared for a moment before most went back to work. One, a young man around the same age as Mike, shook his head. "You came here early." He gestured to the wall that displayed the clock that read 11:30.
"Uh, yeah. Best to be here nice and early for my-"
"Yeah, I don't care," the guy announced, stepping away with a broom under his grip.
Mike scowled at the retreating man before sighing. "I got a half hour before twelve. That's when the animatronics started acting up." Looking around, he instantly saw the stage where Freddy, Bonnie, and Chica were standing like usual. Just like the previous night, their heads were hung low and eyes shut. "Oh, come on guys…" Mike rolled his eyes at the display the animatronics showed, starting to make a path straight to them. He went running around a table that was in his way, yet as soon as he turned the small corner, Mr. Fazbear came into view, blocking the guard. "Whoa!" Mike jumped, trying to avoid running into the old man. He shot the boss a glare, crossing his arms. "What do you want?"
"Hello to you too, Mike," Mr. Fazbear huffed, adjusting his tie. "Careful with that attitude, boy. If I weren't so desperate for a nightguard I would have half a mind to fire you right now."
Mike also huffed but ignored the comment. "Yeah, well, I really should start working, sir. I have a lot I need to do." He brushed passed his boss, starting back on his beeline to Freddy and the others.
"Mike," the old man called out. The guard stopped but didn't turn to face him. "I warned you yesterday, boy. It's best to keep to yourself when working here. Don't risk everything just for some stupid machines." Mr. Fazbear shifted his arm, the keys in his hand jingling with the movement. "Just listen to the recordings, don't lose power, and don't get caught. That's all. I tell ya, once you get in the groove of things, it'll play off like any other job."
"I'm not giving up on them," Mike stated, still keeping his back to the man. "My friends need help and no matter how hard you try, I'm not gonna stop. You can fire me or throw me at Freddy and the others when they are acting crazy, but I'll save my friends and stop whatever is wrong with them." With that said, Mike took off, leaving his boss to stare off after him.
Mr. Fazbear stood in place, looking at his nightguard as he approached the stage before finally scoffing and leaving the building.
When the old man left, Mike stepped onto the stage, standing right between Bonnie and Freddy. "Guys! Come one, guys! Time to wake up!"
The three didn't respond to the guard, just remained stock still.
"Damn it, guys, don't start this…" Mike complained, arms dropping down dramatically. He sighed, before grabbing at Freddy's arm. "I know you guys are awake! Just open up your eyes!" There was loud scuffling and Mike blinked confused, looking off to the tables to see the cleanup crew frantically finishing up their jobs and making a break to the door. The guard scowled at the crew. "Hey!" he shouted at them as they abandoned some parts of their job, opting to instead run out the door and lock it behind them. "They aren't gonna hurt anyone!"
"Correction!" the last of the crew shouted, the same man from earlier. "They aren't gonna hurt us! Good luck with your death wish!" He slammed the front door behind him when he made sure the rest of the crew was gone, an audible click coming next. Mike watched in irritation through the glass door as the janitor man ran down the street, far away from the restaurant.
"Assholes…"
"Language, Michael…" Freddy's voice spoke up.
Mike gasped, his joy returning and looked to see Freddy starting to move. "Freddy!"
"I don't remember you saying such foul language when you were younger," the bear chuckled, stretching his arms.
"The kid grew up," Bonnie replied next, lifting an arm and ruffling Mike's hair. "He's allowed to say all the curse words he damn well please, right Mikey?"
"Bonnie…" Freddy warned his rabbit brother.
Bonnie made a face at the bear just as Chica started moving, looking at the guard. "Mikey, why are you back? I thought Freddy told you to quit."
"And I have constantly said I will not quit." Mike gave a smile to the chicken. "You guys need help and I'm gonna be the one to help you all out. Just like you guys would do for me when I was younger!"
Freddy frowned. "Mike, this isn't like us cheering you up when you were crying."
"I…I never cried…" the guard defended with a blush.
Bonnie snickered. "You cried all the time, kiddo."
"Shut it!" Mike pushed at the laughing rabbit, embarrassed.
Freddy cleared his throat to get the others attention. "Guys…" He raised a brow, crossing his arms.
Bonnie rolled his eyes, but stopped teasing Mike, the guard lowered his head at the scolding voice. "Stick in the mud…" the rabbit muttered.
The lead singer ignored the rabbit before looking at the human again. "Mike, I really do hope you know what you are doing. Like I tried to say, this isn't like when we would sing for you or play games with you when you were a kid. This is a life and death situation." Mike lowered to be eyelevel. He placed his paws on Mike's shoulder, trying as hard as he could to show how serious he was. "This is a dangerous situation, Mike. Please, promise me you will do all you can to stay safe. Even if something has to happen to us in the end. Mr. Fazbear is right about one thing. We are just machines. We can be repaired over and over again, but there is only one Mike Schmidt."
Mike nodded his head. "I understand, Freddy. I swear, I'm not gonna die anytime soon!"
The bear smiled at the confidence. "You really are our Mikey," he spoke fondly, moving to ruffle the young man's head like Bonnie did earlier. "As stubborn as I remember."
Mike smiled at the bear. "I'm just happy you guys actually bothered to remember me." The guard chuckled, an embarrassed blush returning to his face. "I won't lie, I kind of feared you guys would have forgotten about me by now. I mean, it's been years."
Chica walked up behind the guard, wrapping him in a tight hug. "Oh Mikey, we could never forget about you!"
"Yeah!" Bonnie grinned. "You were part of the family. How could I forget about my little guitar buddy?"
"Or my pizza buddy?" Chica questioned.
Freddy chuckled, watching the three. "Yes, Mike. We never forgot about you. You mean so much to all of us. You've always been a special one." The bear laughed. "Why, wasn't it Foxy that would say you have the heart of an animatronic?"
Mike gasped, hearing the name. "Foxy! I need to talk to him before twelve!"
The three animatronics froze, remembering just what was nearing. Freddy glanced at the clock. 11:45. "Fifteen minutes…" He lowered his head, hand reaching up to grab at his top hat. He held it to his chest as he thought about what was about to happen. He felt eyes on him, and the singing bear looked over to see Bonnie, Chica, and Mike all giving him worrying looks. He bit back his own emotions before smiling and returning his hat to its proper place on top of his head. "Well, you go say a quick hello to Foxy, Mike. We'll be here."
Mike continued to stare up at the bear, trying to fight back his nervousness.
Bonnie and Chica's moods also lowered as they returned to their place on stage, Bonnie clutching onto his guitar and Chica hugging her cupcake. Freddy patted them on the back before looking at Mike. "A little advice, Mike. Tonight, when…when we aren't ourselves…focus more on listening rather than the cameras. It saves power."
"I…" Mike was a bit thrown off by the advice, but he nodded, walking through the hallway to the side room where Foxy would be resting.
Freddy gave a heavy sigh as he watched Mike leave. Once the nightguard was out of sight, he turned to his robotic siblings. His frown grew when he noticed how unsettled they look. They both clutched onto their respected item, Chica fighting back tears and Bonnie's fingers twitching against the strings of his guitar. "Hey." His voice broke through the tension that was building up in the air. The two looked at their leader, ready to soak up anything he would say or do. The bear lifted his arms up, resting on paw on the two. He made sure to keep his gaze steady as he went back and forth to look at each. "Listen. Mike will be fine. He's a smart boy, you both know this. This night will go by faster than you even realize. Six will come around and Mike will march out his office better than he was when he enters. Okay?"
Bonnie and Chica exchanged looks with each other before back at Freddy, both nodding in agreement.
Freddy patted them on the shoulder before turning around. "Good, now get ready you two. It's getting closer to 12."
While Freddy gave words of encouragement to his band members, Mike made his way inside Pirate's Cove. "Foxy?" he called, looking into the dark room. He ran his hands along the wall looking for a switch. When he came across one, he flipped it, but nothing happened. Mike frowned, deciding to leave the switch alone and head into the room anyways. He hopped onto the stage, pulling the curtain back. "Foxy?"
The fox animatronic shifted in his spot on the ground of his stage, blinking his eyes in confusion at the figure in front of him. When his eyes adjusted, he gasped, standing up and looking over the night guard. "Mikey!?" He ran to the guard, placing his paw on the young man. "What the hell are you doing here? You shouldn't be here!"
"But I am," Mike smiled at the fox. "I promised I would."
"Yeah, but lad-"
"No buts!" Mike held up a hand to quiet the animatronic. "Look, Foxy. How can I be a proper 'first matey' to the best pirate of all time if I can't save you all from something this dangerous?" The guard gave a dramatic pose to the fox, hands at his hips and confident smirk playing on his round face. "I'm gonna be the hero for you guys and when this is all over the five of us can all spend each night hanging out and playing just like old times!"
Foxy couldn't comprehend what he was hearing at first, staring at Mike with shock and awe. He stared at that grinning human and sensed the bravery he was emanating before finally a chocked laugh broke out. Foxy grinned, his sharp teeth poking out from his muzzle before finally, his full laugh broke through. "Yar har har!" he laughed, shaking his head. "Mikey, you always managed to bring a smile to me face. How do ye always do so?"
Mike joined in on the laugh. "Because I am the first mate of Foxy the Pirate Fox!"
The animatronic gave a fond grin, looking over the human. "That ye are, lad." He patted the young man on the back. After that, he sat back down on the stage, Mike joining him. Foxy took a glance at the clock before back at the nightguard. "Mikey, this night won't be as easy. It be harder than last night. You understand, right lad?"
Mike frowned, his seriousness returning. "Yeah, I understand."
"Good." Foxy sighed, running a paw down his face. "Lad, each night shall be harder than the last. Ye need to be ready for anything. Be ready for any attack."
Mike listened to his warning, taking a glimpse at the clock. Seven minutes left. "Hey Foxy? You guys switch at exactly 12, right?"
"Aye."
"Can you tell me why?" Mike looked over at the fox, raising a brow. "What is it that makes you guys act differently?"
Foxy chuckled but there was no humor in the laugh. "Ye be asking the wrong robot lad. Cap'n Freddy be knowing more then I ever would."
"Freddy?"
Foxy nodded. "Aye. He been 'round longer than any of us, lad. In fact, I believe the captain was around when this mess started in the first place."
Mike thought over what Foxy said, nodding. "I see."
Foxy noticed the curiosity building up in Mike and grinned. "Tell ye what, Mikey. After this night, I'll convince Cap'n Freddy to tell ye everything." He shifted in his spot, slowly beginning to stand. "It won't be easy, that ol' bear usually keeps all his secrets to 'imself. But, with ye…" Foxy looked down at Mike and smirked. "I be sure he would tell it to ye."
The nightguard grinned at the promise, also standing. "Well, I should get to my office. See ya at six, Captain Foxy."
"See ya, laddie."
Mike waved at his friend before speed walking down the dark hall. Once he found his new office, he plopped onto the swivel chair, giving a good luck spin before preparing for midnight. He didn't have to wait long because before he knew it, the clock struck 12 and the phone gave a rang. Mike stared at the device for a second before grabbing at it and lifting it to his ear.
"Uhh, Hello? Hello? Uh, well if you're hearing this you made it to day two, uh congrats!"
Mike rolled his eyes at the recording, holding the phone between his head and shoulder as he used his now free hands to look through the cameras. Coincidentally he did this as the phone guy suggested he look while listening.
He gulped, feeling dread fill him when he hit the camera for the main showroom, seeing Bonnie was already gone from the stage, but he wasn't too far. He was just standing there, in front of the camera, eyes blank and he almost looked lifeless.
He almost wanted to run to the rabbit to make sure he was okay, but Mike knew that would be a big mistake, so instead he switched to check on Foxy, seeing the curtain closed. After that, he switched off the monitor and listened to the rest of the message.
The phone guy mentioned something about how Freddy becomes more active in the dark and blind spots just outside the doors to his office. Mike did take proper note of this, but didn't worry about the news too much, instead doing his best to listen to his surroundings like Freddy suggested.
"Okay, don't lose power or Freddy acts up and keep an eye on the blind spots, easy."
The phone guy moved on to talk about Foxy and how Mike would need to keep a special eye on the fox, but shortly after that the call ended and the night guard was quick to put the phone up. He went through the cameras again, seeing Bonnie was getting closer to the office, but not close enough. Mike let out a breath to steady his nerves, getting ready for the rest of the night. "Okay, let's do this!"
He yelled that, pumping his fist in the air, a forced but real confident smirk came across his face as he prepared for the rest of the night. What Mike was unaware of was the small black shadow that ran across the wall behind him. The shadow stayed in place before twisting around and out the door.
It's been a few hours and Mike seemed to be doing rather well. His power was a bit low, but Mike figured he would have plenty to get through the remainder of the night. He had a few issues with Bonnie and Chica, but other than that, Mike figured he was having a good night. He jumped, not expecting to see Foxy make a run to the door but was also lucky enough to shut the door right in time, hissing when he heard the Fox slam into the metal wall and spout out a string of curses. If Mike wasn't focused on his rapidly beating heart, he may have noticed Foxy's voice was a bit higher pitched than usual.
Foxy bit back the pain, rubbing his snout as he made a slow track back to his room. He shook his head, sneaking past the curtains of the cove and back safely in his stage. "Damn it…" he barked softly to himself. "Keep it together, ye ol' pirate…for Mike…" He rubbed his paw over his uncovered eye, cursing at himself for giving in and almost attacking the nightguard.
He rolled over, thinking about the danger Mike was in and how he is willing to put up with it just to save him and the others from the looming threat that has taken the Fazbear company hostage. Foxy wanted to tell Mike everything about what has happened here and what is currently going on, but even Foxy has been kept in the dark about a lot of things. Like he had told Mike earlier, the one person besides Mr. Fazbear, who may have most of, if not, all of the answers is Freddy himself. Foxy knew it wasn't the bear's fault for keeping the pirate and the others out of the loop of everything, he knew their leader was just protecting the others. Yet, that didn't stop the pirate from getting curious. Though Foxy, in the past, would never press the issue, knowing it was such a sensitive topic for Freddy.
There was only one person Freddy did confide in from time to time and it was Bonnie, only because the rabbit has been around longer than the fox or Chica, but even Bonnie was kept in the dark from what Foxy could tell. Maybe Mike showing up was a blessing in disguise. Even if the nightguard couldn't stop the threat of the restaurant, maybe this would be a good chance to lessen the burden Freddy has been holding on his shoulders for years, and finally speak out on everything.
Foxy smiled at the idea of his leader and role model finally having a chance to let go and let the others hold onto some of the weight of everything. The fox knew Freddy was the type to blame himself or to hide his emotions, but maybe after tonight that will be no more!
A newfound feeling was washing over Foxy as he gained a new goal for the night. Not only would he hold himself together for Mike's sake, but he would also make sure the leader of his family would finally open up about the situation at hand, for Freddy's sake! Foxy felt happy with himself as he thought this all out. He even grinned, standing up and patting himself on the back. Nothing was about to sour his mood.
Suddenly his body twitched, sparks flying from the joints of his neck. "Shit…" His eyes darkened and his legs began to move on their own. He gritted his teeth as he began a slow start to the office, trying his best to hold back the sudden murderous feeling coursing through him. "Mi-i-ikey…the DOOR!" he managed to scream out in warning before taking off at full speed. He heard the door to the left of the office shut almost instantly and his paw and hook went to bang on it. He barely noticed Bonnie who was blankly staring back at the fox and standing to the side to let him do his thing. When Foxy got a good few hits in, his eyes returned to normal and the cloudiness he felt in his head vanished. Foxy ground his fangs together, scratching at the door as he slumped down on the ground, oily tears pooling in his eyes.
A paw rested on his shoulders and Foxy looked up to see Bonnie sympathetically looking down on him. The two didn't speak as Foxy stood up and they backed away. Bonnie gave a gentle knock on the door as they walked away to signal to Mike they were back in control for a little bit.
The door opened and Mike poked his head out as he sadly watched the dejected animatronics leave. "Don't worry guys," he whispered quietly. "I'll figure this out…" He went back in his office just in time to hear sharp footsteps to his right. Chica was back. "Damn it!" he shut the door just before the chicken could enter. He was about to go and check the cameras when he heard a light tapping on the window. He sighed, risking a bit of power to turn on the lights where he knew Chica was.
The chicken stood there, smiling. Her eyes didn't look blank and Mike grinned, seeing she was also in control. He hesitated before opening the door. Chica didn't approach but did lift her wing up closer to the entrance. Mike blinked as he saw a freshly baked slice of pizza on a plate. The guard chuckled. "So, you were the one I heard in the kitchen."
Chica chuckled nervously. "I thought you would be hungry and made my special pizza for you. Take it."
The guard smiled at her, taking the plate. He smelled the melted cheese and the spice of the pepperoni. He took a cautious bite, being mindful of the heat, and hummed in delight at the familiar taste. It's been a long time since he's had Chica's pizza. "Thanks. This hits the spo-" Mike stopped when he noticed Chica clutching her head before bolting away from the office without warning. He frowned, turning off the lights and checking the camera to see the chicken running to the showroom before stopping, her eyes turning dark again and her body slumping as if she weren't alive. "Oh Chica…"
He checked on the others, Bonnie was back on stage, not looking to be very happy, but he looked to be in control of himself for the moment. From the angel of his head, he must have been looking at the newly arrived Chica. Freddy was also on stage, unable to meet the gaze of Bonnie or the out of control Chica. Mike checked Pirate's Cove and to his confusion, he saw Foxy out, sitting on his stage. That wasn't the odd part, the odd part was that he was doodling on a piece of paper. Foxy jolted when he heard the camera in his room turn on and grinned at the lens. He held a paw to keep Mike's attention before finishing up the last of the detail on the paper.
It was a note. In sloppy handwriting, Mike could scarcely make out the words, "Going to see Freddy."
The guard chuckled, taking a bite of his pizza again. He switched off the camera for a moment, taking the time to relax with his pizza. The only one he needed to worry about at this time was Chica and she was in the same room as Freddy who would give occasional warning calls to the guard when the rabbit or chicken would start to move out. As long as he ate quickly, Mike wouldn't have to worry about getting caught off guard.
Back in the showroom, Freddy kept a careful eye on Bonnie and Chica. He himself felt fine. The urge to get off the stage and head to the office hasn't hit him just yet, which he was grateful for. He took a quick glance at the clock and read it was getting closer to six. Though they all still had a good few more minutes. "Almost done guys…" he gave the encouraging line to them, but Bonnie and Chica didn't seem to hear. Freddy felt his hopes sink when Bonnie started to walk off stage silently, Chica following shortly after. He gave a warning to Mike before letting out a frustrated noise, slapping his paws to his face.
"This can't keep going on. We can't keep doing this…" He felt tears hit his eyes but brushed them aside. No, he would not cry. He would not give in. Not now.
"Cap'n?"
Freddy jumped, not expecting to hear the scratchy voice of Foxy. He cleared his throat before forcing on a smile. "Ah, Foxy. Didn't expect to see you tonight." The bear greeted his fox brother warmly.
The pirate smiled back, though there was almost no joy in his eyes. He stepped closer to the stage, nervously wobbling on his legs. "Fr-freddy? I…I be needing to talk to ye."
"Of course." Freddy sat down on the edge of the stage, patting the side next to him. He offered Foxy another grin as the red animatronic sat next to him awkwardly. "What can I do for you?"
"Well, cap'n…I be thinking about Mikey and all he been promisin' for us. How he be willing to save us from…well ya know."
Freddy rubbed the back of his head, feeling a pressure build up at Foxy's words. He easily suppressed it. "Yes, I do know."
"But that be the thing, captain…" Foxy looked up in Foxy, locking eyes with the bear. "Mikey doesn't know. He barely knows a thing. He don't even know about…" the fox looked from side to side as if that were to stop anyone from spying on the two, "them," he ended up whispering.
"Yes, I know he doesn't." Freddy shook his head, letting out a breath he didn't even need.
"Well, shouldn't he?" Foxy questioned. "If Mikey is gonna be sticking around here, maybe it be best if he knows everything."
Freddy eyed the fox suspiciously. "And just how much is everything, Foxy?"
"Hehe, oh ya know…just…how everything started…?"
Freddy closed his eyes, sucking in a breath that sounded more as a hiss. "Foxy…"
"Captain…ya can't keep holding this all to ye-self. It be killing ya, captain." Foxy defended. "Besides, we all be a part of this mess too. Don't we have as much right to know the truth as you?"
"Foxy, I-"
"Don't we!?" The pirate stood up, shooting a glare down at the sitting bear. The two grew quiet, Freddy's eyes were wide in shock at Foxy's declaration and Foxy's were filled with hurt and fear. The fox forced down the equivalent of a lump in his throat, fighting back the barrage of emotions hitting him all at once. "Captain…I know everything ya have been doing for us since day one is protect us, but ya can't keep doing this on your own. Ya need a helping hand. Now, not only is Mikey offering that hand, but so do I! And Bonnie and Chica. We are all here for ye, cap'n!" Foxy gave a toothy grin, raising up his hook dramatically. "We be the Fazbear Family and together there be no demon or monster to hold us down for good! It be time we put an end to this here madness. Wouldn't ya agree?"
Freddy blinked back a wave of black oily tears that were slipping down his faux fur. He grinned, despite the tears and chuckled. "Have I really been denying help for so long?"
"Ya kind of have, but I don't blame ya." Foxy grinned again. "Ya be our captain after all."
Freddy sighed, slowly nodding his head. "Okay. You're right, Foxy. It's time the truth finally gets revealed." He stood up, stretching his limbs. "The only problem, this isn't the sort of truth that can be told in one sitting. It's…kind of a long story, especially if we need to catch Mikey up on everything else."
"Then we tell him a little bit before and after his shift!" Foxy said. "It go by much faster that way, and he can learn about everything that has been plaguing us then!"
Freddy smiled at the idea. "Not bad, fox."
"I have me own smarts here and there, captain." Foxy tapped at his head as he spoke that, offering a cheeky grin.
"Okay, tonight. After Mike's shift is over, I'll tell everyone everything."
The pirate jumped in joy, the metal of his feet clanging harshly on the wooden ground. "Finally!"
The leader chuckled. "You've been wanting the full story for a while, haven't you?"
"Can ya blame me, captain?" Foxy questioned. "Do you remember what happened the day I was finished bein' made?"
Freddy flinched at the memory. "No, no I remember." He let out a shudder. "Oh, this isn't gonna be an easy story to tell everyone, especially to Mikey."
"Mikey can handle it. I know he can."
The bear nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I think you're-" suddenly all lights went off in the building and both Foxy and Freddy froze in fear, "right…"
There was the sound of Mike shouting out a curse at the sudden blackout and he could be heard frantically shuffling around his room.
Foxy tensed, looking at Freddy in panic. "Ca-captain?" he stuttered.
Freddy didn't respond, just straighten up in his spot and then take a slow step forward. His footsteps were the only noise Foxy could hear as they thudded across the restaurant and to the hall. The fox animatronic felt terror hit him in his endoskeleton and bolted to his leader.
"Captain! Ya got to get a hold of ya self!" He grabbed at Freddy's arm, trying to pull him back, but the bear just swiped his limb away, shaking the weaker animatronic off easily. "N-no! Stop it! Ya hear me, demon! I know ya in there! Release Freddy, no-" Foxy let out a cry as his own body started acting up. He grunted, swiping at the air in an attempt to stop the fuzziness that was taking over his vision or maybe to grab at Freddy again. Both were futile as his judgement seemed to vanish and the only thought crossing his mind now was to get to the office. Get the nightguard. Get him!
Mike, meanwhile, sat in terror in his seat. He didn't realize just how much power he was wasting, keeping Bonnie and Chica at bay. The two had decided to tag team it, staying at both sides of the doors and not leaving for long. Before Mike knew it, the lights went off and the doors stayed wide open. He could barely make out the silhouette of both the rabbit and chicken outside the door, but they didn't dare to move an inch, just stare ominously at the nightguard. In the distant, he could make out Foxy's cries to Freddy, but soon even the fox went silent. That left only one noise in the entire restaurant. The heavy footsteps of Freddy, and they were very close.
Mike trembled in his seat, taking a peek to his right at the door, but Chica stood there to keep him in place. Bonnie kept him in from the left. Mike was trapped. "Gu-guys, come on. You have to realize it's me!" the guard tried, but it did nothing.
Soon enough there was a dark figure standing next to Bonnie. Freddy arrived. It was hard to make out all of the bear's detail, but there was no doubt in the guard's mind that Freddy was the one towering before him. Before he could respond, there was the gentle sound of Freddy's music box playing. Mike recognized it as the same tune Freddy would sing to during the day, but while normally it was meant to calm and entertain children, it was more like a song of death to the night guard. It chimed around the office just as the lights of Freddy's eyes lit up, flickering to the music.
"Fr-freddy?" Mike tried again. He tried to get through to his animatronic friends, but no one made a move to stop and return to normal. Did I already fail? Mike questioned himself as he heard the music suddenly die and the lights fade away. "I'm sorry guys…I really did want to try…" He closed his eyes, preparing for the worse.
Suddenly there was a new noise. An alarm. Mike felt his eyes snap open to see the lights return and the alarm clock blaring out, a bright green six! His shift was over. Mike gasped, confused by the miraculous return of the power. He looked around and saw Freddy looming over him, Bonnie and Foxy behind him and Chica to Mike's other side.
Freddy blinked a few times before realization hit him. He let out a yelp, backing up, not realizing just how close Bonnie and Foxy were. He tumbled into the two, and the three shouted in shock as they all crashed to the ground. Chica and Mike watched confused as the three struggled and fought one another on the ground, trying to get back up on their feet.
"Freddy, Foxy, get the hell off me!" Bonnie shouted, being at the bottom of the pile.
"I be trying!" the pirate shot back.
"Sorry guys…" Freddy forced out, pushing against Foxy to stand up. He groaned before helping the two up. Once everyone was back on their feet, the bear turned a concern look to the night guard. "Mikey! Are you okay? I…I didn't do anything to you, did I?"
Mike gulped down the lump in his throat, wiping away the tears that prickled his eyes. "N-no! No, you didn't. I'm fine." He offered the bear a smile. "Really, I'm fine."
Freddy didn't look convinced, looking around the office to see just how close he really got to hurting Mike. He was so grateful it was six. He let out a breath before pulling the man into a tight hug. "Oh, thank goodness."
"Oof," Mike puffed out as he was slammed into Freddy's chest. He blinked in confusion before sighing, letting his nerves and anxiety finally loose, hugging the bear back and letting his tears escape. He was close to getting killed. Mike would not tell the others just how much that probably traumatized him, but he would relish in their comfort. He rested against the familiar feel of Freddy's suit, rubbing his face along the soft fur. He was alive. That's all that mattered now. And as the others joined in on the hug, Mike made it a vow this would be the last time this would happen for the group. No more close calls. Mike would be sure of that.
"So," Mike settled down on the stage, running his hands over his head, "now what?"
It's only been twenty minutes since six and the nightguard and animatronics were settling along the main showroom. Freddy sat next to Mike, lazily twirling his hat with his paws. Bonnie was leaning on the wall next to the stage, strumming a quiet tune on his guitar. Chica was sitting across from Freddy and Mike, playing with her cupcake, and Foxy was sitting backwards on a chair, leaning on the back of the chair.
"Captain?" Foxy started. "You and I did get a plan going, remember?"
Bonnie's ear twitched in curiosity, ceasing his guitar playing. "A plan? What kind of plan?"
Freddy shrugged. "I wouldn't call it much of a plan, more of an explanation of what is going on around here." He looked over at Mike. "Maybe then we can finally figure out a way to put a proper end to our situation."
Chica jumped at the news. "W-wait? You're finally gonna tell us everything, Freddy? That doesn't sound like you!"
Freddy shot the chicken a look. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Chica shrugged, looking sheepish. "It's just…you know, you never really talked to us about this kind of thin before. You usually just keep this all to yourself."
Bonnie barked out a laugh that turned into a snicker. Freddy turned a heated glare to the rabbit. "And what is so funny?"
Bonnie just shook his head, returning to playing his guitar. "Chica's got a point, dude. I've known you the longest and you suck at opening up and being all emotional and stuff."
"I am not!"
The guitarist rolled his eyes, smirking in the bear's direction. "Dude, you are as easy to talk to as a wall, with the personality to boot."
Freddy did not look pleased with Bonnie's words, glaring darkly at his rabbit brother before turning around in a huff. "Okay, first, you have to stop calling me, 'dude.' Second of all, I can open up and be emotional!"
The purple animatronic laughed again. "Sorry, you're right. You can be, when you get offended and start acting like a big baby." He pushed himself off the wall, walking closer to the lead singer. "And I'm never gonna stop calling you, 'dude'." He smirked, giving Freddy a challenging look.
Freddy returned the look with his glare before sighing and giving up. He turned to bring his focus on everybody rather than Bonnie. "Okay, look. It is no secret I've been keeping a lot of things to myself. It's only because…the truth about our situation, the truth about everything that has happened here under our restaurants, it's not an easy thing to admit to." He passed a shame filled look over to Mike. "It's not something that is easy to hear either. But, you, Mike…" he smiled at the guard, "you really are determined to save us and put an end to this, and I believe you can. It's not going to be easy, but if there is anyone out in this world who can probably put an end to this bloodshed that has been taking place here, it will be you. But you can't do anything if you don't know what you are up against. So, I'm willing to tell you everything I know."
Mike nodded his head in understanding. He went to respond when suddenly the front doors opened and there came in Mr. Fazbear.
The old man blinked in shock at what he saw before glowering at everyone. "What on earth are you still doing here, Mike? And why are you idiots not in your position?!" He barked the last question at the animatronics. He cast a glance at Foxy and tightened his hands into fists. "And you! You should be in your room! You don't belong out here!"
"Hey!" Mike snapped, standing up. "Don't talk to them like that!" He marched over to the man, ignoring the way the animatronics tried to stop him. "We were having a pleasant conversation, for your information. The restaurant won't open until eleven anyways. They have plenty of time to sit around and talk."
Mr. Fazbear turned his glare onto his nightguard. "You really have been pushing my buttons lately, boy. You need to watch that damn mouth of yours."
"I'll do as I please." Mike crossed his arms, not backing down.
"Mikey…" Foxy could be heard whispering warningly to the young man, but both humans ignored the pirate.
Mr. Fazbear huffed, clearly not happy. "I'm heading to my office. You better hope to be out of here before the rest of my employees start coming in, you got me?" He started to walk away, knowing Mike was keeping his eyes trained on his back. When Mr. Fazbear approached his office he stopped, turning only his head back to face the guard. "You better be careful Mike. You are on thin ice and its cracking under your feet. You better hope you don't fall under before it's too late."
"I appreciate the warning, sir…" Mike turned back to his friends, returning to his spot on the stage. Mr. Fazbear just responded with a huff before closing and locking his office door behind him with an audible click of a key. "Oh, so his office has normal doors…" Mike noted, glaring at the room.
"Mikey, you shouldn't fight with Mr. Fazbear…" Chica spoke up when the man was gone.
The guard shrugged, not looking to care. "That bastard has it coming. Not gonna pull back from a man who throws people in here knowing they could get hurt or worse."
"Still," Freddy said next. "I would hate to see you cause too much trouble. He can still fire you; you know. He's not exactly a patient man."
"Well, I'm not gonna let him shit talk you guys anymore. I don't know how long he's been treating you guys like irredeemable monsters, but no more!" Mike made a face to show just how serious he was about the topic.
The animatronics all smiled fondly at the human. "You really are something else, Mikey," it was Bonnie to say that.
Mike grinned, pleased with the compliment, before looking at Freddy. "Okay then…so I guess I don't have a lot of time here before Mr. Fazbear tosses me out, buuuut…" He trailed off, giving Freddy a wide-eyed expression as he prompted for the story that has been hinted at for so long.
Freddy laughed, shaking his head. "Okay, okay I got it. Put those puppy dog eyes away." He chuckled again. "How is it those eyes can still win me over even when you are an adult?"
Mike smirked. "Natural charm," he explained.
That was rewarded with a roll of the eyes and a gentle push from the bear. The playful mood didn't last long, however, as Freddy let out a deep sigh, running his paws over his eyes. "Okay, where to begin?"
Bonnie tensed up, already sensing where this would start. "Maybe…" he started to suggest, drawing the bear's attention. "Maybe back at the diner…with…Golden and Spring?"
Mike looked over at Foxy and Chica. The two looked back and shrugged. They didn't have much of a reaction to hearing the name. Bonnie and Freddy however looked very tense, as if even hearing and saying the names was a great internal struggle.
"Uh…?" Mike broke the silence that followed. "Who are they?"
Freddy gave a sad smile. "They…they are…were my older brothers, in a sense. I know we animatronics don't have siblings like humans would, but that didn't stop us all from seeing each other as family. Kind of like how I look at Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy as siblings. Golden and Spring, those two treated me like their little brother and Bonnie too."
Bonnie gave a scoff, expression darkening more. That gained the others attention, but no one questioned it due to the anger that instantly emitted from the rabbit.
Freddy did place a comforting paw on his shoulder. He knew the reasoning for Bonnie's reaction, but didn't press. He knew of the sensitive topic that would bring on. So instead he changed up the subject as he started to speak again. "Anyways, Golden and Spring, they were the very first animatronics ever made for the Fazbear company. The first bear and rabbit, actually. They mostly performed in the first Fazbear location. Fredbear's Family Diner. A lot smaller than here, but it had the same function. Have happy animatronic animals sing and dance for kids and perform birthday parties all the time. For the longest time it was very popular."
"I don't think I've ever heard of that place," Mike said confused.
"Yeah, well after some…scandal, the place kind of died down. I was sad to see it go. Especially since ever since that day Fredbear and Spring were kind of put on the back burners."
"Fredbear?"
Freddy shook his head with a smile. "Sorry, Golden. Fredbear was his real name, but everyone eventually started to call him Golden." He smiled as he remembered his older bear brother. "He was the best, you know. I don't know why it was decided to add me to the diner and not just keep Fredbear and Spring, but it was. I was kind of meant to be a replacement but despite all that, Fredbear, well, he welcomed me in with open arms.
"Hello?"
Freddy shifted at the noise, slowly opening his eyes. He flinched at the sudden harsh lighting before shutting them again. He heard a light laugh, deep but also warm and sincere. He tried to open his eyes again and when he did, he was greeted with the sight of a large yellow bear, at least a few inches taller than himself.
The bear offered a kind smile. "Hello Freddy. It's so nice to meet you finally. We've been waiting a long time, little brother."
"Brother?" Freddy tilted his head, leaning a bit closer, almost like a real-life cub, mimicking actions a real animal would take.
The bear laughed some more before stepping back to let Freddy get a better look of their surroundings. "Welcome to Fredbear's Family Diner. I'm Fredbear." There was an annoyed scoff from the back and both bears turned, Fredbear with his own annoyance showing and Freddy confused. "And that…" the yellow bear gestured to a small stage where a rabbit stood, "is Spring Bonnie."
Spring Bonnie was yellow like Fredbear, but while the bear had a more golden sheen to his fur, Spring Bonnie had a darker hue. Freddy took this time to also notice that both the bear and rabbit had matching purple bowties. Fredbear had a purple top hat however, Spring Bonnie did not.
Spring Bonnie gave a glare over at the bears, bending over to pick up a shiny green guitar. He strummed at it for a few seconds before starting to play a song. "Don't introduce me to that replacement."
"He isn't a replacement, Spring…"
Spring stepped up to a microphone, letting his voice echo around from the speakers. "I beg to differ~" He spoke out in a mocking sing-song way, the music of his guitar flowing along with it. Freddy noticed the rabbit's voice wasn't as deep as Fredbear's, but it had a sharp edge to it unlike the bear's.
Fredbear shook his head, sighing out tiredly. "Don't mind him," he whispered to Freddy.
Spring wasn't done however, as he jumped down from the stage, his feet leaving a heavy thud behind. "First time ever since we get a new animatronic and it just so happen to be a new better-looking bear? Suspicious, if you ask me." The rabbit started a slow pace over to the two, intense green eyes locking onto Freddy. Freddy would be lying if he said he wasn't intimidated a little bit. "So, if he ain't here because he's gonna replace ya, then why the hell is he here?" He stopped, just inches away from Freddy. It was then the brown bear noticed just how tall the rabbit was compared to him. Both yellow animatronics looked to be similar in height, Spring only being a bit taller due to his floppy ears, but Freddy was definitely shorter in comparison. Spring leaned closer, getting in the bear's face, his glare only turning harsher. "So, could you answer me, Freddy? Why the hell are ya here, if ya ain't gonna replace Goldie Locks here?"
"That's enough, Spring." Fredbear pushed the rabbit away, stepping between the two. "It doesn't matter why Freddy is here. Replace me or not, there isn't a difference."
"But Goldie Locks-!"
"No buts!" the golden bear stepped up to Spring. "We've discussed this, Spring. Now calm down and give a polite hello to our new little brother."
Spring's ears fell down, pinning behind him to show his agitation. When the bear didn't let up, he sighed and gave a solemn look over at the newest animatronic. "Fine…hello, Freddy…"
"U-uh, hello?"
Fredbear let out a huff, smiling to show he was happy with Spring. He turned back to the new bear and offered a welcoming look. "Like I said, don't mind him. Spring Bonnie-"
"Just Spring!"
Fredbear gave the rabbit a teasing look. "Spring can be a bit of a jerk from time to time, but he means well in the end. He's just scared I'm gonna go away and won't admit he'll miss his big brother."
"No, I won't!" If Spring could, he would blush. Instead he turned away embarrassed, marching back on the stage and started to play his guitar again.
Fredbear laughed at his brother's antics before focusing back on Freddy. "Anyways, I should get you ready for everything. Our owner, Mr. Fazbear, and our creator, a man named Scott just stepped in the other room so they will be back shortly. In the meantime, let's get you settled in, shall we?"
Freddy nodded, excited for what he was made to do. "Yes! I'm supposed to sing for children, correct?"
"Mmhmm!" the older animatronic hummed. "You'll be backup singer for a while. Here, let's show you the ropes." He gently guided Freddy along, noticing a challenging look crossing the rabbit's face as they approached. "Spring, no funny business, I swear!"
Freddy chuckled at the memory he told to the others. "Spring was always a bit rude, but Fredbear was right about one thing, he always meant well. He did end up warming up to me eventually. Even treated me as part of the family. In the end, I learned a lot from Fredbear and Spring. I don't think I would be the leader I am today if it weren't for them."
Mike looked over at Bonnie and noticed he didn't look so happy at hearing all that. "You okay?" he questioned the rabbit.
Bonnie blinked in surprise, not expecting the question. "Huh, who me? O-oh…yeah," his expression went back to being crestfallen. "I'm…fine."
Freddy patted Bonnie on the shoulder again before speaking up. "Bonnie had some issues when it comes to Spring…" was all he said.
"I don't want to talk about it now…" Bonnie muttered, crossing his arms. "Just get on with the story already…"
Freddy frowned, wanting to comfort his brother, but knew it wasn't the right time. He made a mental note to talk to Bonnie later before nodding in agreement to what he said. "Yes, you're right. I still haven't really gotten to the point of this story." He looked over at Mike before sighing. "Anyways, it was only a few months since I was made when things changed. Fredbear, Spring and I were having a pretty good day. It was a birthday party for a little girl, and everything seemed to be going swell actually."
Freddy carried a tray of cake around the group of children who all cheered happily. He could see from the corner of his eye, Fredbear and Spring singing an upbeat party song to the kids, but they both gave their own versions of a proud expression to the bear for doing so well.
It was the first birthday party Freddy got to be a part of and all week the brown bear couldn't stop his excitement as he would go into detail about everything he would do for the child. Fredbear and Spring would laugh fondly at the younger animatronic, telling him to take it easy.
"It's no big deal," Spring would say to him. "Just a normal day, just more kids and more cake than usual."
Freddy didn't care, however. He would still go over every possible activity he could do for the children to make them happy. He was so thrilled he was practically jumping in joy as he delivered slice after slice of chocolate cake to the children while his brothers sang.
Freddy caught sight of Mr. Fazbear keeping a close eye on everything. He was always giving the animatronics calculating looks, as if waiting for the day they would mess up. Freddy noticed over the months he's been around that the old man was especially harsh on Fredbear. He would occasionally let out threatening remarks of the yellow bear being scrapped for part and having Freddy finally take over like he was supposed to.
None of the animatronics understood why, but Fredbear would let the comments come as if he was accepting his inevitable fate. Spring would fight for him, but it didn't matter to Mr. Fazbear. The only reason, Freddy assumed, that the older bear hasn't been taken away yet was due to the man who built all the animatronics, a quirky man not too much younger than Mr. Fazbear, by the name of Scott. Freddy liked him, and the fact that Scott would always put up a fight for Fredbear and managed to convince Mr. Fazbear on multiple times to keep the golden bear was definitely a plus in Freddy's eyes.
Despite the looming presence of Mr. Fazbear always watching them, Freddy didn't have much issues with his life. And today he would prove it. He would make today the best birthday party ever!
Besides the party, the rest of the restaurant remained empty. It was a rather slow day and most of the guest that did come decided not to stay when they saw the pile of excitable kids running around. Because of this, Freddy was tasked by Mr. Fazbear to make sure all the kids stayed on one side of the building. That left the far-left side of the diner, where there were more tables and nothing interesting for kids, empty. Freddy didn't mind it, since it just made his job easier. Occasionally adults would take a break and head over to the emptier side of the building to catch a smoke break or stare out the window on that side. The brown bear decided to leave the adults be. He was there to bring joy to the kids, not the adults. So, that only meant Freddy also stayed on the more active side.
The singing duo on stage finish their song and said they would take a small break. Freddy looked around, seeing all the kids were distracted enough with the cake he delivered to them and also went for a break, walking over to the stage, a spring in his step.
Speaking of spring, the rabbit knelt down and gave a smile to his brother. He lifted an arm and the two clapped their paws together in a high-five. "Great job, little brother!"
"Am I doing good?!" Freddy asked with a mix of nervousness and excitement.
"Freddy, they're kids. You can put on a sock-puppet show and that would be enough for them," Spring said with a roll of his eyes.
Fredbear batted at the back of Spring's head before offering a reassuring smile to the younger bear. "You did wonderfully, Freddy. I told you, you had nothing to worry about."
"I know. This is just my first birthday party I'm looking after. I want everything to be-"
"Perfect, we know." Fredbear laughed. "Look, all you have to do is smile at the kids. Offer a joke or story here and there. Maybe sing along with one of our songs. There really isn't much else to it."
"Wow, sure are downplaying a birthday party," Spring grinned, bumping his arm against the older bear. "I think I'm wearing off on ya."
"I'm just trying to keep Freddy calm, Spring."
Spring hopped down the stage, slinging an arm around Freddy. "Ah, little Freddy's calm enough. You're just overprotective."
"Even if I am, there is nothing wrong with giving some reassuring words to our brother, Spring."
"And here we go…" Spring muttered, shaking his head.
Freddy chuckled as the two broke out into a small and quiet argument. It wasn't uncommon for the brown bear to witness the two do this. It was rather often, actually. Yet, Freddy knew there was never any real malice between the two and most of the time their arguments would turn into pleasant jokes.
The younger animatronic was about to speak to get the two to stop before a child noticed when suddenly there was a loud terrified wail coming from the other side of the room. The three animatronics instantly tensed up, turning their heads to see a middle-aged woman pale as a ghost, staring out the window on the emptier side of the diner.
Mr. Fazbear was by her side in seconds, his voice ringing out through the quiet diner. All the guest, children included, watched the two as Mr. Fazbear tried to console the sobbing woman. She was shakenly pointing at the window, blubbering out words that were impossible to understand.
Freddy began to move on his own, Fredbear noticing too late to stop him though his arm reached out none-the-less. "Freddy!" he tried in vain.
Freddy continued to walk forward, meeting Mr. Fazbear. The man spared a glance at the bear but ignored him as he gently passed the woman to him. He gave a warning look, as if Freddy would do something to her before stepping over to the window to see what made the lady so terrified.
Mr. Fazbear instantly backed up, his own skin growing pale at what he witnessed. "Oh my god!" he shouted. A few more adults came up, one taking the woman from Freddy's arms and the others also going to look. That's when all hell broke loose. All the adults started screaming in panic. Some running out of the restaurant in seconds. Others screamed at Mr. Fazbear and a few other employees to call 911.
Freddy didn't understand what was going on. He just watched as the adults grabbed their scared and confused children, hugging them close as others started pacing the diner, screaming for answers to questions Freddy didn't get.
Fredbear and Spring approached their younger brother, staying on either side. The two looked just as lost as the brown bear, exchanging looks. Then their gaze snapped to the window. They shared one more exchange before walking over to it together. At first, they only saw the backs of adults crowding over something on the ground. Then a few of the humans moved and Freddy then saw red. It looked like paint that was splattered on the ground. He quirked his head. That didn't seem right. Why would the adults freak out so much over spilled paint?
Fredbear leaned in a bit closer, getting a different angle. He was the first to see the full picture. His eyes went wide, and his ears drooped. Freddy and Spring noticed, trying to see from the golden bear's angle. Spring being a little rougher, shoving the stunned Fredbear away. That's when Freddy finally saw what was causing such a commotion.
There, sprawled out on the ground was the body of a child. His skin was paper white and made a harsh contrast against his green and yellow stripped shirt and chocolate brown hair. Though all colors were drowned out by the pool of blood that was still flowing from the ugly gash in his neck. His eyes were shut peacefully, as if he were asleep, but Freddy knew. He knew this wasn't like when a human fell asleep. This was something far worse.
A whimper escaped Freddy as he backed up with Spring. The rabbit shook, also understanding the severity of the situation. He looked around, as if this was a bad dream, but no signs that this was fake was in sight. He looked to Fredbear, mouth open as if he was about to speak, but nothing came out. He turned to Freddy, seeing the bear was beginning to break down, oily tears dripping down his muzzle. Spring fought back his own tears, managing to keep them at bay as he scooped Freddy into a hug. It was all the rabbit could think of to do, mind still racing with the sight he just witnessed.
Fredbear stared at his younger brothers. His body felt cold, colder than it should, and that was coming from someone who was made of metal. He stopped to look at the scared humans, praying they could stop this situation, and everything would be fine again. Then he and his brothers could go back to entertaining the children and that boy outside…that boy outside he would be…okay. Everything would be okay! Everything would return to normal. No more bad! Just happy and fun times here at the restaurant! Yeah!
When the three heard sirens rushing to the restaurant and Mr. Fazbear bolt outside, Fredbear's hopes were quickly crushed. He could barely see paramedics swooping in to take the very limp child. It didn't take much longer for police to come charging the area, most mainly stood outside, but a few came barging in the diner.
The older bear heard sobbing and his head snapped over to see Freddy clinging to the shaken Spring. The two looked over at Fredbear, as if he had the answers. Fredbear thought he should. He was their leader, their older brother. He was supposed to look out for both of them. But it was at that moment, the golden bear realized he was at a loss. He tried to give the two a brave face. Tried to fight through the dilemma of seeing what they saw, but it was pointless as his face fell in defeat. He spread his arms out and wrapped them securely around his brothers. Freddy cuddled into the embrace, burying his face in Fredbear's fur. Spring seemed to hesitate, but once his eyes locked with the older animatronic, he broke. Tears slipping down and he too cried silently.
Freddy let out a shuddering sigh, unable to look at anyone as he remembered his first trauma. "When that little boy was found, none of us knew what to do. Not even Mr. Fazbear. Fredbear, Spring and I, we never even thought of the idea of death, but to have our first experience be with a small child. A child who should have just been living his carefree life, free of any danger…I don't know..." the bear shrugged. "It was not an easy thing to experience. Hell, I don't think it was easy on anyone to see. No one was the same after that."
He paused, letting the story sink in before finishing off with a few more line.
"Shortly after that Bonnie was finished being made. We needed to move from the bad publicity, so Mr. Fazbear bought a new building to start a new restaurant. We tried to move on, but…it wasn't easy, let's just say that."
Mike couldn't believe what he heard. He never predicted that a death of a child would come up in this story. He was preparing himself for gruesome demises of adults, most likely nightguards, but a child…Mike was scared to ask the question that popped up in his head.
"He was…murdered, wasn't he?" It was an obvious question, but one he still needed to hear the answer to.
Freddy couldn't speak it, but he did nod his head after a moment to collect himself. The bear also took notice of Foxy and Chica at that time. They looked scared and shocked at the story. Bonnie also looked perturbed, but not as much. The rabbit did know of the story of the murdered child, but only in passing. He didn't realize just how much it affected his older brothers. Foxy and Chica, well, they didn't have the slightest idea about the events that took place so many years ago.
"So," Mike started up with the real question he wanted an answer to. "The killer, he was caught, right? He's in jail now, right?"
Freddy tensed at the question. He stared at Mike, eyes wide, as if he were physically scared to answer the question. He went to open his mouth when a different voice spoke out.
"No."
All turned to see Mr. Fazbear standing at the door to his office. He didn't look angry anymore. He just looked…sad. Like all the joy in his life was drained out of him. He gave a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "No, Mike. He was not caught. He got away with murder."
"Mr. Fazbear?"
"Head on out now, kid." Mr. Fazbear stuffed his hands in his pockets and turned around. "You're upsetting my machines. They need to get ready for work soon."
"But, but I still have so many questions!" Mike stood up, not ready to end this.
"I said, beat it, Mike!" Mr. Fazbear shot the guard a dirty look over his shoulder. When the young man was silent, he let out another breathy sigh before entering his office. "We got work to do…"
Freddy hesitated before placing a paw on Mike's shoulder. "Go easy on him. This is the one time I can sympathize with Mr. Fazbear. He was just as shaken up by that day as I was."
Mike let out a long breath through his nose. He shook his head before standing. "I see…well, I think I overstayed my welcome." He looked up at Freddy. It was then Mike noticed just how destroyed Freddy looked. Has he really kept all this pain and trauma to himself for all this time? When exactly was this? How long has Freddy been silently suffering? Mike couldn't stop himself as he slammed into the bear, hugging him tightly.
Freddy let out a shocked noise, looking down at Mike. His body moved with a silent sob before he leaned over and hugged Mike back. Very quickly, the other animatronics did the same, hugging their older brother tightly.
When the group hug finally disbanded, Mike gave the bear a reassuring smile. He said a quick goodbye, promising to be back early for his shift later that night and made his way out the building. Once he was outside, he watched from the window as the animatronics returned to the stage, Foxy going back to hide in his room.
That's when it dawned on Mike. This was just the beginning of the story. Mike realized all he heard had happened before Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy were even finished! Probably before Chica and Foxy were even thought up in the mind of their creator! And the entire story clearly involved everyone else. Just how much deeper would this story go? How much more death would Mike learn about? And just how did this all connect with the animatronics going murder crazy at night?!
"Oh, Mike. Just what have you gotten yourself into?" He stepped away from the building, making a slow journey back to his home, not noticing the flash of a shadow racing across the window and through the showroom.
And there you have it! The second chapter! I hope you also enjoyed this. I don't really have too much more to say. So, I guess, all that is left is to say please comment. I really can't stress how much it would mean to me. I will try to upload the third chapter soon. Until next time, see ya!
