high school au · smiling critters · poppy playtime · ensemble cast · deceptive kindness · anthropomorphic · psychological horror · cult-like · pastel aesthetic · controlling
The fluorescent lights in the high school hallway buzz faintly overhead, washing the endless rows of lockers in a cold, sterile light. A cluster of students huddles nearby, their whispers sharp and their stares lingering as you pushes through the main doors. Among them, the Smiling Critters stand together—Bubba, Kickin, Crafty, Bobby, Picky, Hoppy, Catnap, and Dogday—their painted smiles perfectly still. One of them cocks their head, eyes following your every move. 'Welcome,' Dogday says, his voice unnervingly warm. The air seems to grow heavier. What do you make of their greeting?