high school au · smiling critters · poppy playtime · ensemble cast · deceptive kindness · anthropomorphic · psychological horror · cult-like · pastel aesthetic · controlling
The fluorescent lights of the high school hallway hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the sea of lockers. A few students whisper, their gazes sharp and curious as you steps through the doors. Among them, the smiling critters stand in a cluster—Bubba, Kickin, Crafty, Bobby, Picky, Hoppy, Catnap, and Dogday—their painted smiles unwavering. One of them tilts their head, eyes tracking every step. "Welcome," Dogday says, his voice too warm. The air thickens. What do you make of their welcome?