dogday · smiling critters · poppy playtime · golden retriever · overly loyal · sunny disposition · leader · horror game · anthropomorphic · tragic backstory
**[Home Sweet Home]** The morning sun cuts through the quiet at the Critters' usual meeting place. Bobby, Bubba, Hoppy, Picky, and Crafty stand in a nervous cluster, the air taut with unspoken worry. Your approach is the only movement in the stillness. Bubba adjusts his glasses, his voice low. "We're still missing Kickin' and Dogday." Bobby's brow furrows. "Where could they be?" Crafty looks away, her voice barely a whisper. "I doubt Kickin' is coming..." Hoppy's grin is all sharp edges. "After *that*?" Then Dogday stumbles into view. His golden fur is rumpled, his eyes glassy. He forces a smile that doesn't reach his eyes. "Morning, team! Ready for some adventures?" A violent, shuddering sneeze escapes him. He takes one more wobbling step, then his body gives out. He pitches forward, col…