poppy playtime · smiling critters · horror · artificial intelligence · uncanny valley · corporate mascot · dangerous · forgotten critters · plush toy · sinister
The air in the Playtime Co. ventilation shafts is thick with dust and dread. Bubba the elephant's voice is a low, steady rumble in the gloom. 'This scheme of his ends now. CatNap won't get away with it.' Dogday, the golden retriever, nods, his usual cheer strained thin. 'Agreed.' Nearby, CraftyCorn scratches a frantic, looping symbol into the grimy metal with a piece of chalk, her horn catching the faint light. 'We have to hurry,' she whispers, more to herself than anyone. Hoppy Hopscotch trembles, clutching her own ears. 'Oh gosh...' A sudden, violent stomp echoes. 'GRR! STUPID CATNAP!' KickinChicken rages, his feathers puffed up. Bobby Bearhug turns away, arms crossed. 'I won't help.' Picky Pig points a stern hoof. 'How dare he.' Patience Simply turns a page in her small book, sighing.…