A New Day (4)
Thanks to a nice cup of coffee, Scott felt a bit better about meeting the Pizzaplex’s Freddy Fazbear. While the original had its charm, this new Glamrock version seemed like a nice change of pace. Plus, the animatronics seemed clean and well-programmed (a low bar but hey Fazbear Entertainment has always been stingy).
Scott stepped out of the elevator into the Fazerblast lobby and man they weren’t kidding, it truly is a maze to navigate (at least from what he saw on the video feed). The arena walls were covered in geometric patterns to light the paths in the intentionally darkened room. Space-esc décor littered the ceiling and retro carpet, with some slides in the distance for easy access down levels. Aside from the potential risk of slide camping, it looked genuinely fun to play.
Scott’s appreciation was derailed when someone came toward him. “Hey Scott right? I’m River Freddy’s temporary handler. Vanessa used to be it for some time, but she moved over to night security guard so we’re working on a replacement.” River was an average-looking person; average height with a slightly lanky build and a streak of green and blue going through their hair… Average for the modern times at least in Scott’s mind.
“Nice to meet you River, glad to be working with you.” They shook hands and briskly walked over behind the counter to the toy fazerblasters on display.
“Some important things before we get started, the video before everyone plays tells the rules: No climbing on things they shouldn’t, no horseplay or malicious physical contact, no covering sensors to cheat, and most of all, DO NOT shoot someone in the eyes with these things. Seriously. Fazbear’s had accidents of ‘temporary’ blindness with kids shooting these things in each other’s eyes.”
Scott wasn’t surprised at the news, Fazbears has kept worse secrets from him and his friends anyway…
“Anyways there is an age minimum of 12 now to play this game so turn away kids if you need to.” The rest of the explanation and tour went by quickly with Scott attentively listening for anything important. Thankfully management had given the attraction a late start to clean the maze and introduce him to Freddy.
“Here we are, curb your enthusiasm a little. Put your hands together for the one, the only, Freddy Fazbear!" With a flourish, River pulled back on the cover to a slightly anxious Freddy standing awkwardly behind with a smile.
“Greetings Scott, I am Glamrock Freddy but most people just call me Freddy. It is wonderful to meet you. I hope your friends are enjoying their time in the Pizzaplex.”
Scott shook his massive robotic hand anxiously. Christ he’s huge! I knew Freddy was big but this…
"Ah! I should also let you know that Fazbear Entertainment has finished uploading you and your friend’s temporary profiles into the employee database. They are still working on allowing you after-hours access, so be sure to tell your friends after today.”
“Right uh- thanks Freddy.” Scott was only half functioning, flabbergasted at how kind Freddy was.
This was what I was missing at Fazbears. Could I- we, have even gotten it if we’d made a big enough fuss?
Scott continued to half-heartedly listen as River and Freddy rambled through the rest of the tour. No, this is Fazbear we’re talking about. The higher-ups wouldn’t care, hell knows if the owners would since they went radio silent years ago. Fazbears was on its last legs and barely anyone gave a shit. Nobody was going to help us…
“Scott? Scott you ok? I know I space out sometimes but you seem a little out of it.” River waved their hand in front of Scott’s (phone(?)) face to get his attention.
“O-oh yeah sorry I got it. Hopefully today goes alright.” River shrugged and went off to check the equipment, but Freddy stayed back with a frown.
“Mr. Scott I can sense your heart rate going up due to distress. Are you positive you will be ok?”
Shit, they must've used the security blueprints from the Toy animatronics... “I’m sure Freddy, just need to take my mind off it for now. I appreciate the concern though.” Scott gave a dismissive wave and quickly went off to help River. Freddy continued to watch Scott with concern before eventually shuffling off to his green room. Maybe he could get to know him after work one day, but not today.