Freddy's Back

Chapter 1: Nancy starts at Springwood Hospital

Nancy took a deep breath as she stepped through the looming iron gates of Springwood Psychiatric Hospital, the early morning mist swirling around her feet. She had dedicated her career to helping troubled teens overcome their deepest traumas and fears. Now she was determined to make a difference for the group of teenagers battling disturbing dreams in this mysterious town.

Walking briskly up the path lined with drooping willow trees, she clutched her briefcase tightly, mentally preparing for her first day as a therapist. The imposing brick building seemed to stare back at her, its arched windows like watchful eyes.

As Nancy entered the lobby, the smell of antiseptic hung in the air. A nurse with curly auburn hair looked up from the front desk, giving Nancy a warm smile.

"You must be our new counselor, Nancy Thompson," she said, rising to shake Nancy's hand. "I'm Emma. Let me show you to your office."

Nancy followed Emma down a long hallway, their footsteps echoing on the polished tile. She observed the passing rooms, hearing faint murmurs and shuffling from within. Emma unlocked a door near the end of the hall labeled 'Nancy Thompson, Therapist' in neat black lettering.

"Here we are. I know you're excited to get started helping our residents," Emma said kindly as Nancy set her briefcase on the large oak desk.

"Yes, I've reviewed their files extensively and I'm looking forward to meeting each of them today." Nancy replied. Though her voice was assured, her stomach fluttered with nerves.

After Emma departed with a warm reminder that her door was always open, Nancy began unloading framed diplomas and books, placing them carefully around the office. The room seemed to swallow her up, with its high ceilings and walls devoid of any decor beyond faded floral wallpaper.

Settling into the leather chair, Nancy opened the first file folder, reviewing the information on her new patients. Phoenix, age 17, plagued by violent night terrors. Liam, 16, reporting being stalked by a sinister entity in his dreams. Liam with OCD showing recent signs of possession. Jessica, 19 year old artist, drawings indicating she is haunted by a to her childhood. Nancy frowned as she examined each psychological profile, wanting to understand what tormented her new charges.

A sudden knock on the door snapped Nancy from her thoughts. A gangly teenage boy with unruly brown hair and dark circles under his eyes entered cautiously. Nancy stood to greet him.

"You must be Oliver," she said warmly. "Please come in and make yourself comfortable."

The boy slumped into the chair across from Nancy's desk, avoiding eye contact. Nancy noticed faint bruising around his wrists before he quickly pulled down the sleeves of his frayed sweater.

"Ollie," he mumbled after an awkward silence. "I prefer Ollie."

"It's very nice to meet you, Ollie," Nancy said gently. She opened his file, reviewing the notes again. Severe insomnia...claims evil presence haunts dreams. Nancy's heart went out to him.

"So Ollie, why don't you tell me a bit about what's been troubling you?" She kept her tone light and caring.

Ollie shrugged and let his shaggy hair fall into his eyes. Nancy waited patiently for him to gather his thoughts.

"I can't sleep lately," he finally said, picking at his nails. "And when I do, I have...bad dreams."

"What happens in these bad dreams?" Nancy prompted.

Ollie squirmed in his seat. Nancy could sense his discomfort. She remained quiet, allowing Ollie the space to open up at his own pace.

After a long pause, he spoke barely above a whisper. "There's this burned man with long claws that chases me. And sometimes my dad is there...hurting me again."