Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Poppy Playtime and its characters are owned by Mob Entertainment.

August 8th, 1995

Early morning, at the entrance of the quiet yet ominous packing room, the tall, bipedal toy agitatedly scanned his surroundings. Unlike this factory's other surveillance devices, the ones here could not be accessed. Though they were not as scrutinized, cameras were still cameras. Thus, the orangey and yellow-trimmed dog knew he had to be quick about this. A tool belt, strapped around a thin plush waist was an indication that he was supposed to be in this sector of the factory. But heaven forbid if anyone stopped him before he concluded this undisclosed task.

It was now or never.

Before the plush canine took another step, his large and floppy ears twitched at the sounds of small and squeaky whimpers. He peered down at the hundreds of small plush toys, trembling at his feet.

"Shhh, it's all right, little guys," DogDay crooned in a gruff and kind voice. "There's no one here yet. But we need to go. C'mon."

Gingerly, he ushered the mini critters across the huge room of shipping parcels of all sizes. They lightly strode and scurried to one very big crate in particular. It was lined with brown paper and contained proof of purchase. But contrasting from all the other boxes and crates loaded with vended toys ready to be sent out and distributed to retailers, this one was empty.

During the previous night, DogDay had marked the parcel ready; it was meant to be filled with an order for Playtime Co.'s aromatic toys of their popular mascots: the Smiling Critters.

But little was the awareness of the employees that this order was going to be living cargo.  

"Here..." DogDay removed the top lid of the wooden box, "I'll help you... Please, we must hurry."

As swiftly as he could, the lanky dog lifted and placed each small, sentient toy within the crate, one by one. Although this was extremely risky, his broad red-orange paws were gentle, for he neither wished to hurt nor startle any of the scared little beings.

Eventually, DogDay held the final critter, a tiny version of himself.

"Now, remember, when humans see you, stay still. You're ordinary toys, okay?"

The little dog nodded as did the others, sitting up in the broad crate together in each of their designated groups. However, when he was set down, he would not let go of the big paw.

DogDay groaned glumly. "I wish I could save more of you, but this retailer is strict. They rejected deliveries before. I can't risk you returning to this awful place."

The tall toy tried to move his arm, but the clinging little toy would not budge.

"Don't worry, I put in some air holes near the bottom, so you'll all have air and the trip's not long," assured the large dog hastily. "Just... please, let me go!"

Emitting tiny whines, the mini counterpart shook his head as small limbs began tugging with all their might.

He wanted DogDay to be in the crate, too.

With a pained sigh, the large plush canine bowed his head; one of his red-orange ears hung over the matching patch over a dark eye socket.

"I can't. I must stay. I have to help them. Get through to them."

Yes, time was critical, but this mini critter had to be consoled... They all did.

Kneeling and with a free paw, DogDay brushed the little dog's ear and spied a stitched number underneath.

"Listen carefully. I'm counting on you, little 1, to lead your kin to freedom. No more being controlled. Only happiness."

Peering through artificial eyes, the tiny toy gazed up at his mentor. Both he, DogDay, and the other mini critters wore unwavering, black, and toothless smiles. But the set expressions were a façade to everything this apathetic, immoral world harbored. The dread in this facility could practically be cut with a knife.

The little plush canine detected the edginess rising in the elder's yellow chest by the swaying of the big sunny zipper. He now knew. It truly was up to him.

After rubbing a plush cheek onto the big knuckles, the appointed little leader bowed his head firmly, granting DogDay his arm.

The tall toy chuckled weakly. "Hmm-hmm. Good boy."

He scuffed the top of the little dog's head, instigating a wiggling of a tiny orange tail. Then with a catch in his throat, DogDay regarded the other mini critters, adoringly.

"Goodbye, little guys... Thank- you all. For-For not wanting to hurt anyone."

The top of DogDay's ears lifted; brought back to the urgency by faraway yet heavy stomps. The mini critters started whining and fidgeting again.  

"Oh, no!" Getting up, DogDay grabbed the crates' lid and held it over the little rearing faces. "Please, stay quiet. Sit. Stay. Be good!"

The tiny toys hunkered down as the final view of their valiant elder was replaced with wood, followed by the sounds of a hammer impacting four nails in each corner.

Huddled with his fellow critters, the appointed leader detected the shifting sensation of being carried, then to a conveyor belt that brought packages to bay doors for pickup. And as the machinery took the toy evacuees to their chancy fate, DogDay could be heard, shouting over an incoherent but raspy voice.

"What am I doing? My usual free labor! What are you doing up here? ...I told you... I don't know where they are! ...No! No! ...I said I don't-!"

'KNOW! KNOW! KNOW!'

"DogDay?"

'KNOW!'

"DogDay."

"Huh?!" gasped the little sitting plush canine, veering his view to the side.

The old recollection was interjected by a light and consoling voice and gentle pressure around his withers. He was being embraced by one of his good and longtime friends.

"You looked lost," whispered Bobby BearHug. "No one likes that. So, I thought you could use one of these."

The little red and pink-trim bear's limbs and cheek snugged DogDay closer, and his tail bopped the office seat with appreciation.

"Thanks, Bobby." His tone became perky and optimistic again. He laid a red-orange paw over hers. "Can always look to you for a much-needed hug."

"Anytime." On the swivel chair, the plush ursine sat next to her friend. "You were thinking about Unkie D again, huh?"

DogDay's sights descended. "Yeah... I still can't help but hope he's okay."

Bobby craned her view after hearing the worriedness resurfacing. She resolved that with another squeeze.

"Oh, I'm sure he's more than okay! Unkie D's big and strong. Nothing can tear him down!"

DogDay hugged her back. "You're right! Thanks, Bobby."

"Hee-hee! Anytime!"

The pair settled into the flat padded seat once more, awaiting the arrivals. As they did so, their craning round heads idly observed the quiet office.

For three decades, Cube Bee's Toys was the covert housing for hundreds of sentient Smiling Critter toys. When they had first arrived, as their mentor had said what would happen, personnel of Cube Bee's Toys pried the Playtime parcel open and inspected the order. And of course, the critters froze like figurines. The manager was surprised to find the one hundred Smiling Critters that were supposed to be mandatorily retracted were there. He figured these toys must be fine. Moreover, he didn't mind having them still included since Cube Bee's Toys was already refunded. Hence, the order was accepted. Freebies meant more profit.

But shortly after, when the Smiling Critters' tails were tugged to ignite their iconic feature, the staff discovered that something was amiss. The Playtime Company liked to cut resources, and these experiments never had their scent system fully installed. They were completely odorless. All eight hundred Smiling Critters. The request for Playtime Co. to give Cube Bee’s Toys a reimbursement before collecting the defective toys was put in. However, none of the personnel ever heard back from the ginormous corp.

So since then, the management instructed that the Smiling Critters be shelved and held. Just in case Playtime Co. made a comeback. In hopes, that the plush toys would be sorted out by collectors who deemed them as vintage originals and worth a mint each.

But as the years went by, that dream became as forgotten as the leaky pipes in Cube Bee's Toys. 

Cube Bee's Toys was a wide, one-story rectangular warehouse that was an online store for toys and children's items. It was colorless and mundane with packages and crates cluttered onto numerous metal shelves and multiple small desks with laptops for processing orders. Along with the office was an eatery, and several pallid washrooms; all with minor furniture and bland accessories. The only thing vibrant was a large sign, hung in the center of the lobby that sported the logo for the retailer: a cube-shaped, cartoon bumblebee.

Cube Bee's Toys was nowhere near as vast as Playtime Company. Nonetheless, it was clean enough and just had enough space for the critters to stretch their little limbs. But more importantly for the former experiments, there was no more imprisonment. No more tests. And food wasn't too hard to scavenge for there would always be leftovers in the messy staff's eatery.

Due to the employer's tightness, there wasn't any surveillance. Instead, a motion-sensor light in front of the warehouse was used, along with fluorescent lights that were on twenty-four-seven to deter any criminal activity. Hence, the critters did not have to worry about unsheathing their artificial ruse during the night. They were able to spread out and mingle and would interact with the retail supply. Which of course, were always put back to avoid suspicion of nightly activity.  

However, right before work hours, the time when the employees of Cube Bee Toys moved at a very fast pace, the critters would return to the old shipping crate. While they no longer had to worry about him or the scientists, restrictions on their lives remained. They still were under the control of humans, despite the latter being unaware of the perceptive plush toys among them. So even in this warehouse, the critters weren't able to fully be themselves, whenever they wanted, or go wherever they wanted.

Regardless, the critters kept their promise not only for themselves but for their beloved elder. They would not hurt the humans. In the beginning, the critters considered keeping them out of the warehouse. But if that somehow occurred, there would no longer be edible supplies. Not to mention the possibility that the bewildered personnel would likely bolt down the entrances from the outside, thus, giving no chance at leaving.

That is if the little toys ever found the courage to do so. Because around the facility was grass and nothing more. And nowhere to hide.

DogDay and Bobby BearHug stared out the sealed window beside them. Like the other scarce panes, it was covered with iron bars. It was such a strange feeling... Like being free and not free, all at once. The little dog had always reflected that this was really the life that their loving elder wanted him to oversee for his fellow critters.

Nevertheless, DogDay had faith that their lives would improve... someday...

"I still don't get it, Bubba!" stated a sweet and eager voice. "It's too spicy and would taste terrible in muffins."

DogDay and Bobby turned their sights toward the pink and dark pink-trim pig trotting through the office door. Being accompanied by a blue and dark blue-trim critter.

"Culinary, it would be," replied the little elephant in a big and proud tone. "But it still grows from a flower and has seeds like apples. So botanically speaking..."

"Okay, you win!" giggled PickyPiggy between snorts. "A pepper isn't a vegetable, it's a fruit." She waved a hoof at the sitting critters. "Hi, guys!"

The little bear swayed a pink paw. "Hi, Picky! Hi, Bubba!"

When the two strolling toys reached their friends, they heard rushed breathing behind them.

"I got here before you!" decreed a chipper and outgoing, green and dark green-trim rabbit. "And you glided half the way!"

"Ears don't count, Hops!" retorted her puffing pal beside her. "And I can't bounce on all fours like you can!"

"Well, I'm still the fastest critter out of our gang!"

The cool and assertive yellow chicken clucked and chuckled. "Well... maybe not..."

His wing gestured to the plush pachyderm, causing Hoppy Hopscotch to gasp and thump her hind foot in protest.

"Bubba Bubbaphant beat us?!"

KickinChicken rubbed a firm orange beak. "Hmmm... Maybe we should ask 'im about the speed of light again."

The plush bunny bobbed her head in agreement and the plucky pair met with their friends. DogDay and Bobby jumped and climbed down from the swivel chair, unintentionally making it squeak as it spun.

"Hey. So, what's our meeting about?"

"Hi, Kickin!" DogDay held up a digit. "Not yet we're still waiting for-" 

"I'm here!" called a little white and teal-trim unicorn, cantering in the room. She let out a soft and shy titter. "Sorry! I know Bobby told me we were having a leaders' meeting, but I got distracted by my new coloring book."

Over the plush equine's back was a mini belt bag, full of broken crayons and dented markers. Items that had been dispatched by the warehouse staff. Her right hoof wore a Velcro band, used to hold said art utensils.

"That's alright, Crafty," reassured DogDay, glimpsing at a wall clock. "You're right on time."

CraftyCorn trotted up to her six friends and hummed. "So... where's... um... you know who?"

The little dog shook his head, barking out a chortle. "Beats me. But somehow, he's always here, even if we don't know it."

Despite the cheerfulness in DogDay's tone, Crafty looked away, flicking her teal tail. True, he was a good friend, but she for one, was never a critter who liked surprises.

The seven toys formed a wide circle amongst each other, and the plush canine made a bob of his head.

"Okay. Let's begin the meeting of the leaders of the Smiling Critters."

The toy animals sat on their haunches and lay on their small, plush abdomens. Due to living in the warehouse for so long, the plush and organic bodies have slowly altered on their own accord throughout the years. Such as the zipper departments had detached, including each of the critter's line of respective pedants. Now, the only thing their stomachs garnished was a very fine vertical scar.

The false black button eyes were no longer present in the black sockets. Instead, shiny white irises with plush eyelids resided. 

Though the toys stood on their back legs at times, they preferred to move like the animals they were designed after. The critters had harder hooves and nails on developed dexterous digits. Little hard white teeth had also emerged in small movable maws. And the spout piece that was for emitting an herbal or sweet scent had converted into a small and inorganic, ebony tongue.

But in contrast to their bigger body relatives, none of the mini critters could articulate words. The communication was giggles, growls, yips, chittering, and other animalistic vocals that only they could understand.

All of these sentient toys were given numbers. And because these particular critters had the number '1' stitched in the pinna of their right ears, their hundreds of kin professed them a leader of each of their lines.

But to the critters in this room, the true leader was and always would be DogDay.

The little orangey and yellow trim dog discerned the attentive yet worried faces of his favorite companions and cleared his throat.

"So... we need to discuss the present dilemma..."

PickyPiggy leaned into the big ear of her blue pal, causing it to flap.

"What's dilemma mean?"

"A problem," was the simple reply.

"Oh, thanks, Bub!"

"...It's been said among critters that there's a worker strike," continued DogDay. "And since it's been a week that any human has walked in the warehouse, I believe this isn't a rumor."

"But no humans mean the place's all ours!" declared KickinChicken. "We can stay out like this all the time!"

"Yeah! No more hiding and way more fun!" His green pal hopped, giving him a high four.

"I agree," peeped CraftyCorn. "I can use as much art stuff as I want!"

The lounging plush sow next to her sat up. "This all sounds good to me. So, what's the di-lemma?"

Bobby BearHug exchanged serious glances with DogDay, for she was told about the situation beforehand.

"The dilemma is," she answered, "no workers... no more food."

Wide-eyed, PickyPiggy slumped to the floor.

"Okay... that is a dilemma!"

"We're almost out of rations," stated the plush canine. "And without the workers, we won't have a food source anymore."

DogDay noticed his friends side-eyeing each other disquietly, and he jumped on all fours, wagging his tail.

"Don't worry, guys! This's why I called you here. I'm sure we can figure out what to do before our food runs out!"

PickyPiggy's dark pink snout began to quiver. Bubba Bubbaphant patted his pal's back as he looked at DogDay.

"I-I mean our food won't run out... because we will... be somewhere new!" reiterated their leader.

Bobby gasped softly. "Somewhere new?"

"Yeah, and where would that somewhere be, exactly?" Kickin inquired, squinting an eye.

"I'm with Kicks, DogDay." Hoppy Hopscotch outspread her paws. "Because outta this factory, it's just grass, grass... and more grass... Not that grass wouldn't be tasty."

Her yellow pal stuck out a small tongue. "Yuck! Hops, you're green enough."

The plush bunny rolled her vision and elbowed him mirthfully.

Crafty and Bobby turned to DogDay as he hummed flatly to himself.

"I'm not sure where we should go... yet. So, I was hoping our Bubba could help figure that part out?"

Six pairs of shiny eyes focused on the plush pachyderm as he rumbled in contemplation.

"Well... I believe I could find us a new home..."

The critters beamed and cheered.

"...but I'll need a map of our current location to start with."

The room fell silent. There were so many things in this toy warehouse, but unfortunately, maps weren't exactly interesting playthings for children.

"Oh!" The little unicorn cantered in place. "I think there's one in this office!"

Bobby held her paws to her plush, pink chest. "Really, CeeCee?!"

"Uh-huh! I was looking for more paper the other day and I just saw one in the... oh, in the left bottom drawer!"

Bubba stroked his trunk. "Cube Bee's Toys was probably planning on expanding, perhaps."

On behalf of her white and teal pal, the plush ursine went over to the large wooden desk and stood, opening the mentioned drawer with little claws. However, she frowned after she peered in for there was no map within.

"I'm sorry, Bee..." Crafty said sadly, scuffing the flat gray carpet with a hoof. "Maybe in the drawer across from it?"

Bobby BearHug checked, but had no luck with that one, either.

"There are more drawers. Maybe if I stand on someone's back I could reach them..."

PickyPiggy jumped to her dark pink hooves with an excited oink.

"Look over there! On the very top shelf!"

The toys reared their heads to where the little pig was indicating and they spied a rolled-up paper, partly revealing itself among some old books on a lofty cabinet that nearly reached the ceiling.

DogDay gleefully scampered in a small circle. "Good eye, Picky!"

"Thanks! I think I remember seeing it 'cause it's rolled up like a cannoli." The plush sow felt her belly. "Emmm. I love cannoli." 

"Oh my!" gasped the little bear, craning her small neck to view the map. "I don't think I'll reach it even if we all formed a Pug-a-Pillar. Maybe I can climb the shelves..."

"No need, Bobby, we've got this!" assured KickinChicken. He swerved to the little rabbit with a growing grin across his beak. "Ya ready, Hops?"

With a wink, Hoppy flopped on her back, rearing up long, dark green feet. "Go for it, Kicks!"

The plush avian rushed across the room, scratched the carpet twice, and then, sprinted forth, getting sprung by his pal's strong hind legs. He soared across the large chamber and perched on top of the cabinet. Flapping his feathery plush wings closed, he pecked the map up and in one lurch, glided down to the others.

The critters celebrated as the little chicken's sturdy orange feet reached the floor and opened his beak for the grateful elephant.

"Great job, you two!" barked DogDay delightedly.

Hoppy Hopscotch sat up proudly, wriggling a poufy dark green tail, as her yellow pal posed triumphantly. Bobby waddled over and stood upright by him. Her paws cupped her face.

"You're so awesome."

"I know!" Kickin stroked his plushy head feathers, and then his proud posture eased, clinging onto a left wing. "Heh... Thanks, Hugs."

Bubba Bubbaphant placed the map on the floor, unrolling it with dark blue padded feet. The other critters formed a ring around him.

"Anything interesting, Bubba?" DogDay asked, discerning the simple, regional map just as carefully as his friend was.

"Hmmm... Well... near the left side is where we are presently... Cube Bee's Toys. And all on the right upper and lower corners look like a city that'd be too far and too dangerous to venture in. ...Mostly everything else is just roads and trees and... Oh... This might have some promise..."

The six toys eased in as the little elephant tapped his nose to a small spot that was near their warehouse.

"This dot right here... It reads... Nestling."

"Nestling?" Bobby repeated curiously. "You mean a bunch of cute baby birds live there?"

Bubba's smile deepened, on the account that she'd recalled one of his biology lessons.

"While nestling is a term for very young birds, Bobby, I believe the name is just for, well, namesake."

PickyPiggy strained her eyes. "It doesn't look very big."

The plush pachyderm nodded. "That's why I think it might be an appropriate size for us. Its range is nothing like that of the city and it's not very far. No more than three miles."

KickinChicken grinned. "Radical! Three miles would be a breeze!"

"Yeah! We'd be home in no time!" concurred Hoppy Hopscotch. "Heh-heh... home... That sounds kinda nice, doesn't it?"

"It sure does, Hoppy," added CraftyCorn. "I'm tired of living in scary factories and boring ol' warehouses. I bet it's someplace really colorful!"

All the encircled critters began babbling gleefully, however, their leader sat up, waving his paws.

"Okay, okay! I know everyone's eager and I am too, but we gotta know what this place is first." He turned to the studying, elephant. "Any idea what this Nestling could be, Bubba?"

"Hmmm... There aren't illustrations, excluding the trees, of course. I would require another database to learn more."

"What about the computer?" The plush ursine signaled to the big desk. "Maybe that would tell us?"

"Brilliant idea, Bobby!" trumpeted Bubba, hastily marching to the timber furniture.

The humble bear averted her view, crossing her paws. She swore that her red plush had become a shade deeper.

DogDay went to ask Bubba if he needed assistance with reaching the top of the desk. But the little elephant had accessed the computer many times on his own before. And using his lengthy, prehensile nose, he partially opened one side of the drawers, clambering atop.

The critters wobbled to DogDay as he admired his blue friend turning on the PC and squatting himself in front of its keyboard. 

"Bubba is quite clever," remarked the plush canine.

Picky bobbed her head. "Yeah, and Bub's very good at typing. I tried..." She held up her front limbs. "It's not easy without fingers."

The critters watched silently as Bubba read the bright LED screen after searching the words: Nestling, Wisconsin. At length, he stood on all fours, carefully turning around, so as not to fall from the big desk.

DogDay padded closer to the chair. "So what did you learn about Nestling?"

"Not a whole lot of information," Bubba replied. "It is a discreet town. However, as I predicted, it is small. Five hundred houses."

"Houses, Bubba?!" gasped Bobby. "You mean... Real houses?"

"Well... yes, it wouldn't be a township if it didn't have residences."

The plush pachyderm climbed down and joined his friends as they chattered away. With a wagging tail, DogDay clicked two white nails together.

"This's it! This is where we'll finally get the chance to live happy and free!"

The toys seemed enthusiastic but the little elephant's mouth-line and trunk had a downturn. Their leader, being the empathetic critter that he was, regarded him.

"Something on your mind, Bubba?"

"What isn't?" Picky mentioned to her blue pal, causing him to modestly rub the back of his ear.

"Thanks, Piggy. ...Dogday, I don't mean to be a wet blanket, but I believe our joy is making us a tad shortsighted. This is an active town. It's not abandoned."

"Humans..." muttered Hoppy, lowering long, dark green-trim ears with rapid nose twitches.

The once-light atmosphere suddenly felt extremely heavy. DogDay observed their uneasy miens. He bounced on his hind legs to regain their attention.

"Listen! I know it seems scary, but I know how to get the humans to leave without hurting them or them hurting us!"

Idly scratching a pick muzzle, Bobby BearHug forced a weak smile.

"I'm... not so sure now, DogDay."

"Yeah," agreed Kickin reluctantly. "Humans are pretty scary."

Even his eager green pal was bobbing her head. "Maybe we'll have enough food till the strike's over?"

"And go back to eating scraps and hiding half the day away?" questioned the plush canine while still sounding confident. "Please trust me, guys! I know this idea will work! Crafty's right! Don't ya think we've been stuck in this boring ol' warehouse long enough?"

PickyPiggy droned to herself. "Well... thirty years is kinda a long time. And I am getting worried about Crafty..." The little pig whispered to Bobby. "Your bestie's been playing a game she made up called imaginary splotch friends." 

The plush equine pointed a hoof at the top corner of the flaking, white wall.

"Tee-hee! That one looks just like me. I call 'im ChippyCorn!"

Craning their heads, the six critters silently frowned partway as a piece of Chippy dropped to the floor.

"Yeah, we need to go," proclaimed Kickin.

The rest nodded and murmured in agreement.

"That's the spirit!" barked DogDay as he play-bowed before sitting. "Together, we can do this and lead everyone to freedom! Just like Unkie D wanted."

The toys' expressions lightened with admiration and elation as they cheered.

"Yes!" trumpeted Bubba. "We'll be the Smiling Nestlings!"

The office went silent as the critters blinked quickly at the little elephant. He chuckled sheepishly.

"Um... name pending."

His friends laughed with him for a good while, until a lengthy, raspy yawn was perceived. The excitement ebbed away as the seven critters veered their heads at the window by the computer desk. Atop its sill, sunning was a plush feline.

Bobby leaned into DogDay's ear. "Weren't we just looking out that window before every critter came in?"

Beaming, DogDay briefly raised his withers nonchalantly.

Everyone watched the purple and dark purple-trim cat lift his lower half with front claws and limbs stretched in front of himself. Sitting up, a tail that was twice the length of his small torso was draped down; its tip swaying like a lure, awaiting inquisitive fish.

The plush feline swerved his head, staring. Finally, he blinked once. And all at once, the rest of the critters blinked back.

"Hey... What'd I miss?"   

With playful scoffs, the toys shook their heads.

"Everything, per usual," Hoppy responded with a smirk.

Rearing his view, DogDay padded up to the eighth critter.

"CatNap, I'm sure you're aware of the worker strike. We want to leave the warehouse for a better life. We found a place called Nestling."

"Nessst...ling..." The cat's low and calm voice sounded like he was sampling the word in his maw. "Emmm. Tasty title."

PickyPiggy grimaced while KickenChicken quickly sidestepped behind her.

"It's a small town, Naps, and not far," DogDay explained. "We need every leading critter on board to help guide their line to our new home." He tilted his head. "So... wanna hear my idea on how we can do it?"

CatNap was giving his orange pal a genuine, closed smile. Then, he opened his small jaws... only to exhale deeply again, laying himself down.

"It sounds like a big change."

DogDay nodded. "It is."

CatNap laced his paws and rested his bottom jaw.

"Hmmm. Let's-"

"Please don't say 'Let's sleep on it'," interjected Hoppy.

Bobby BearHug wobbled forth and sat beside DogDay.

"We always appreciate your coolness, CatNap, we really do. But this time, time isn't on our side. We're running out of food, and most of us can't use mice and bugs as sustenance like your line can."

Picky looked at Bubba. "Sustenance?"   

"It means nutrition, Piggy."

"Oh, thanks!" The little pig's eyes enlarged. "Oh, no thanks! Yuck!"

"Eh," Kickin droned, jerking the top of his wings. "Ants aren't half bad."

His green pal arched her muzzle, displaying her front incisors.

"Gross!"

The snarky chicken leered. "Y'know that ants like to hide in the grass, right?"

Hoppy threw him a look, crossing her short, front limbs.

"Stop. It."

"Bobby's right, Naps," said DogDay matter-of-factly. "And even if the workers return, we won't have access to the warehouse full-time, anymore. ...What other reason would there be to continue to stay?"

The plush feline's head arose.

"There are boxes."

CraftyCorn giggled in amusement and PickyPiggy canted her way.

"He's serious!"

The little dog sighed but continued to sport a buoyant beam.

"C'mon, Naps! You worship the sun more than any of us here! Don't ya want to feel the rays for real? Aren't ya tired of crawling in the hole in the crate, crammed with everyone and hiding all day till dark?"

After a flick of a small ear, CatNap returned to resting on his haunches.

"I like living in shadows." He peered down, slowly tracing an extended black claw across the sill. "It's better than living in a cage."

"Oh, CatNap!" bemoaned Bobby empathetically.

The critters watched as the plush feline leaped from his perch. And following a back leg stretch, he padded for the ajar door.

"Where're you going?" Bubba asked, breaking the silence.

"To think."

And with that said, the elongated purple tail slipped out of sight.

"He means to hunt," commented KickinChicken.

"Not to worry!" DogDay barked. "CatNap will come around. He always does!" He waved a paw inward. "Okay, gang, huddle up! Time to hear my idea!"

The toys regrouped as the plush canine initiated the murmuring.

Crafty glanced at her red pal beside her.

"Why are we whispering?"

Bobby just replied with a shrug.

"Um'unno."

This was it. CatNap finally found a spot where he couldn't find another critter; under one of the lowest shelves in the warehouse. And only meters away was his prize. The little deer mouse had just eaten a crumb of some sort and was now dutifully grooming itself. CatNap couldn't help but respect its tidiness. Then, purring, he revealed a fanged grin.

A prewashed breakfast.

With pupils engulfing his irises, both of the crouching cat's withers and haunches were writhing with anticipation for the pounce.

Suddenly, the tan and white rodent froze, sitting on minuscule hindquarters. And with unblinking black eyes, it dashed off, being harried by a duo of plush felines.

"What?"

With the dark purple pinna of his ears pinned, CatNap removed himself from hiding.

"That was my hunt."

"You snooze you lose!" one of the mouse swipers retorted as they took chase.

"...Blasphemy," CatNap hissed under his breath.

Expelling a puff of air through a black nose, the narrow-eyed cat sat on the cold, cement floor, coiling his tail. Once his annoying kin shrank out of view, CatNap's gurgling stomach brought him out of his sulking.

"Great."

He sneezed from being underneath the uncomfortably hard, dusty shelves. After licking a dark purple paw to wipe his muzzle, Catnap raked the mediocre, critter-filled warehouse, until his mind drifted back to where and what his fellow, leading group was discussing.

"Hmmm~"

In the office, the chattering seven toys had parted but kept themselves in a loose circle. Everyone was feeling lighthearted after the brainstorming. All the assorted tails in the room were either swishing or waggling with full-on excitement.

"My gosh! It's been such a long time since we've been outside," commented Bobby BearHug while looking at a barred window. "Well, if ya count the one-way trip to the warehouse."

CraftyCorn swayed her head, kicking white limbs in the air.

"Too long, Bee! I can't wait for my art to be inspired in our new home!"

Bubba Bubbaphant's ears and the dark blue tuft on his tail were very animated, as well.

"We can have real homes and go on real education walks!"

"I wonder if there are apple trees in Nestling?" PickyPiggy oinked and snorted to no critter in particular.

"Or sports centers!" exclaimed her green and yellow friends.

"Those things sound fantastic!" Panting, DogDay bounced on his back red-orange paws. "Maybe there are lots of fire hydrants!"

The six critters turned to face him and he grinned.

"What? I think hydrants are super interesting!"

The tittering toys chatted away, but it was cut by the sound of the partly closed door being shoved, causing the plush equine to whinny in alarm. The critters fronted the plush feline sitting behind the wide-open entryway of the office.

Picky gave DogDay a sideward glance. "Why does that door creak only when he moves it?"

The happy dog simply shrugged again as CatNap looked on...

"Hey... What'd I miss?"

PickyPiggy held out her hooves. "Everything, per usual."

The plush feline chuckled. "So, this small town, Nessst...ling..."

"Please stop saying it that way!" pleaded KickinChicken, ruffling his plush wings.

"...Is it isolated?"

Bubba bowed his head. "That's what the map indicates, yes."

CatNap smiled. "And does it have... humans?"

The other critters shared glances of concern but ultimately, nodded.

"Afraid so," replied DogDay. He gave an encouraging smile. "But we figured out what to do about them. We're... going..."

DogDay trailed off because the cat's mouth-line had spread upwards even further.

"Count me in."

"Wait?" "What?" squeaked and clucked Hoppy and Kickin puzzlingly.

With a blurry tale, DogDay sprang in the air and bounded forth, embracing and rocking his purple pal.

"That's wonderful, Naps! I knew we could count on you!"

"Hold up!" Piped Kickin with an extended wing. "He doesn't know all of DogDay's idea yet."

CatNap gave his hugging pal a cheek rub before sitting down.

"I would listen to Bubba's math lessons if it granted me privacy."

The plush pachyderm pouted with a disgruntled rumble.

"I thought you liked my lessons."

"I do," admitted the tranquil cat. "Better than lullabies."

Picky nudged her blue pal. "Bub, it's from CatNap. It's a compliment."

Bubba flapped his ears, proudly puffing out his chest.

"Besides," CatNap averted his view from his ogling friends and coyly pawed at his tail. "I trust D.D."

DogDay's yellow-trim beam could have brightened up the entire room. As far as he could recall, he and CatNap were always the best of friends. It was most likely their happy and serene acceptance and aid to each other that sealed their forever bond.

With a raised paw, DogDay beckoned everyone to sit closely together, once more.

"Okay, gang! Time for a recap."

And in moments, the eight leading Smiling Critters were conversing about the biggest undertaking of their little lives.

Chapter Text

In the center of the lobby of Cube Bee's Toys, right below the retailer's logo sign, seven hundred and ninety-two mini Smiling Critters chittered in wonder about what their leaders had conferred in their office, hoping that a solution to the food shortage from the worker strike was rectified. It was very worrisome to the point the toys had begun stress eating. There really wasn't anything left. Not even paper wrappings from discarded muffins. Those were polished off as well.

In front of the assembly of plush animals, atop a lofty and large crate, were their number 1 leaders. In the middle of the little vertical row was DogDay and Bubba Bubbaphant with a flipchart on a short easel between them. The seven critters were standing up to show their one-foot-and-a-half-inch height. This way, everyone was able to view them more clearly.

Hearing the sounds of rapid, short grunts, Bubba turned to see his orange friend sitting and leaning while madly scratching one of his big, floppy ears.

The little elephant tread next to him and bent forth to gain his attention.

"Nervous?"

DogDay halted his hind leg and got to his paws, shaking his plush fur back into place.

"Heh... Kinda, Bubba."

Returning to an upright stance, the plush canine placed a paw over a heaving yellow chest.

"Boy... I hope our CatNap is here." He let out a deep breath. "I could sure use his peaceful presence right about now."

Bubba straightened and smiled hearteningly. "Oh, as you say, he's always here, even if we don't know it."

"Yes, I'm sure CatNap is... just being CatNap!" reassured Bobby BearHug. "And don't worry, we're all here, too!"

She scuttled over and gave DogDay a quick cuddle and his tense little body slackened.

"I needed that. Thanks, Bobby."

"Hee-hee! Anytime!"

"Yes, we're all behind you on this!" CraftyCorn proclaimed happily, though she kept stealing glances at the big sheet pad.

KickinChicken held up his shortest, plushy feather. "Yeah, break a leg, DogDay!"

All his fellow friends tilted their heads, giving him incredulous stares. The little chicken clucked and flapped dismissively.

"Oh, c'mon! Everybody knows that means good luck!"

"Apparently, not us," Bubba mentioned with a disapproving sway of his trunk.

"Ugh... Fine!" squawked Kickin, rearing his head.

The plush avian strutted up and after a moment of staring at his perplexed leader, he clasped his yellow wings around him.

"But we know our DogDay doesn't need any luck. Ya got this."

With closed eyes, the grateful little dog squeezed back.

"Thanks so much, Kicken."

Following a few pats, Kickin returned to his spot. He noticed all his friends with much-arched mouth-lines.

"What?"

"Awww!" Hoppy Hopscotch cooed. "That was so sweet, ya big softie!"

"Hmph! Look who's talking, cottontail!" her yellow pal retorted in jest.

DogDay viewed all his good and longtime companions around him... supporting him. And his positivity and smile returned in full swing.

"Thanks, guys! You're the best. Ya really are."

Their beams brightened more so as Bubba lightly placed the corner of his front foot over his leader's withers.

"I'm ready if you are, DogDay."

Sharing a determined smile, the plush canine bowed his head, giving his blue friend the incentive to resume his position by the left side of the flipchart. Picking up a woody ruler with his trunk, Bubba struck the metal bars of the easel several times; the clanging reverberated in the warehouse, gaining the attention of all the conversing toys.

It took a couple of minutes for the chatter to lessen as hushing spread until everyone was quiet and observant. The plush pachyderm leaned forward, placing the ruler into his orange friend's paw, who waited for all the bright little eyes to focus on him.

"A'hem! Attention every critter! Thank you so much for all gathering together this afternoon. As you know, I and your fellow leaders want to resolve our food crisis."

Within the large crowd, one of the toys from Picky Piggy's line stood up and held a hoof straight in the air. DogDay pointed the little numbered stick in their direction.

"Yes?"

"Is food being delivered soon?"

DogDay smiled regretfully. "I'm sorry, but there's no food delivery."

With a dissatisfied frown, the pink inquirer rested their limb.

Standing with DogDay, Picky clamped onto her belly.

"So hungry! I'd eat a worker if one of 'em came back!"

Shaking his head, the little dog placed the end of the ruler in his other paw.

"Picky... No one is eating anyone."

Bubba Bubbaphant swished his tail in thought. "Hmmm... I've read that humans have nearly the same flavor as pork."

The plush sow swiveled her wide sights at Bubba.

"Ya mean pi-?!"

"Peppermint! I meant to say peppermint!" fibbed her blue pal. "Yes, just like peppermint!"

DogDay threw the nervous, chuckling elephant a sideward glimpse.

"Not helping, Bubba..," he muttered with a feigned grin.

Picky licked her snout. "Oh, peppermint, yum!"

Averting her eyes, Hoppy Hopscotch bounced aside... as did all the little rabbits who were near any overly leering pigs.

"Why're ya worried, Hoppy?" questioned Bobby BearHug. "Your line isn't minty."

"But we're the same color!" the plush bunny quickly replied. "Speaking of mints..." She cupped a paw to the side of her mouth. "A lot of candy canes are pink and red..."

To their dismay, the tiny ears of their pink friend had twitched.

"Mmmm, candy canes are delicious!"

Without a single blink, Bobby stepped back... as did her line that stood by any fixated pigs. 

Bubba swiped a foot from his brow to the end of his long nose while DogDay briefly craned his view toward the hanging sign.

"Again, no one is eating anyone."

Drawing out a breath to help him refocus, DogDay displayed an assuring smile.

"We have good news! Your leaders have a plan for a real home!"

Garbled chatter resumed from the mentioning of home. Then, within the large group, a yellow chicken flapped a wing upwards, and silence returned. DogDay signaled the ruler to them.

"Where? All I can see through the windows are weeds."

"Yeah," piped in a plush equine beside them. "Who knows what's lurking in those spooky weeds!"

"And ready to gobble a critter right up!" finished a little rabbit, quivering a tiny nose.

Gasps and edgy ramble echoed throughout the lobby. The six leaders, eyeing each other, tapped their front feet, hooves, and wings together. With a resolute nod, the leading little dog put his paws as high as he was able.

"Every critter! Please! Please! Calm down! Yes, it sounds scary, and I know everyone's getting jittery from the lack of food, but we won't be outside forever. Please understand, we must leave Cube Bee's Toys 'cause we certainly can't stay."

"Why not?" called out a worried little bear from below. "Worker strikes aren't forever."

"Well... It's better if our Bubba Bubbaphant explains."

The plush canine extended the ruler to his friend's trunk who took a moment to clear his throat.

"Well... through the office computer, I've found an update on the supposing strike. And our situation is much more dire than we initially had thought. There isn't a strike at all." Bubba took a breath. "Cube Bee's Toys is bankrupt."

To the little elephant's surprise, every toy was as quiet as the invading deer mice in the warehouse. A blue front leg in the large group went up.

Bubba pointed the ruler towards them. "You have a question?"

"I do... What does bankrupt mean?"

Dropping the flat stick, Bubba's maw became totally exposed because someone in his line had requested that definition. KickinChicken snickered from his friend's gawking expression and his green pal shushed him, while also trying in vain to keep her giggling at a minimum.

DogDay sidestepped back and forth to pick up the ruler and gently poke the shell-shocked, plush pachyderm to respond. Bubba finally blinked and straightened himself, accepting the ruler again.

"Yes... well, the details of bankruptcy are irrelevant to us critters.  But, in our case, it means there may not be any humans coming into the warehouse for a very long time."

"If at all," DogDay finished reluctantly.     

"No food?! We'll STARVE!" bemoaned a little dog, triggering all the toys in their line to howl plaintively.

The cluster of critters were whimpering, and some were cuddling each other in utter sorrow. Bubba and the others gazed at DogDay with realization. This was why he was so hesitant about bringing this news up! All the same, the seven little leaders knew that it was only fair for all of their kin to be up to speed with their critical situation.

But notwithstanding the sad scene before them, their number 1 leader was beaming with hopefulness.

"Cheer up, everyone! We won't be living outside for your leaders have come together with a plan to reach a haven for all of us!"

With a wiggly tail, the plush canine outspread his red-orange paws.

"Which will bring us into houses!"

The upset toys muted themselves and craned their small necks, blinking broadly.

"Houses?" a pair of plush ursines called out wishfully.

"Yes, real houses," answered DogDay while sharing a wink with his red friend.

Small tails and mouth-lines began to wiggle and rise. DogDay gestured to Bubba.

"Bubba Bubbaphant, I believe it's your time to shine."

The little elephant exhibited a big and proud beam.

"Much obliged."

Bubba swayed a limb until all the critters focused on him.

"As our leader said, we cannot live in the elements. Especially with our- err... short stature. However, with our plan, which contains a few smart maneuvers by me, we'll be able to reach our goal."

Still coiling the ruler, the plush pachyderm arched his trunk. "For visualization, we have everything on paper, thanks to our CraftyCorn."

Crafty beamed, timidly waving a teal hoof. Her unicorn kin softly waved back.

Still standing upright by the easel, Bubba bent his round torso to lift the corner of the blank sheet. However, it kept slipping from his fictional grip, over and over.

"Darn it!"

And over.

"A'hem, DogDay, would you be so kind..."

With a curt nod, his orange friend pawed the first page away.

Bubba unbent his back. "Thank you." He glimpsed at his front pads. "Strange, that always worked for our cartoon intro."

The little elephant tapped the end of the ruler to the art-covered paper and hundreds of pairs of shiny white eyes were set on the first illustration of simple, well-aligned houses, and a soccer field that was among many apple trees and fire hydrants.

"This town is our target. It's called... Nestling."

Bubba signaled the ruler to another raised plush wing that was amidst the crowd.

"Yes?" 

"It looks like a very small town, even for us."

Bubba eyed the sketch of six houses and screwed his sights shut, patting the top of his trunk.

"May I remind every critter that the art is just a representation?"

CraftyCorn idly rubbed her tiny white horn. "Sorry, but I couldn't draw five hundred homes on one page."

The little toy put their wing down. "Oohh, welp five hundred is way better!"

Bubba took a breath. "Yes, well... As I was explaining about Nestling... ...Yes..?"

A plush canine lowered their paw. "Is everything in Nestling red?"

Crafty held her Velcro-wrapped hoof which still carried half a ruddy crayon.

"I like red 'cause it reminds me of my bestie!"

"Awww!" crooned Bobby at her admiring pal.

A little rabbit shook a paw to be noticed.

"Why so many hydrants?"

"Is Nestling a fire hazard?" inquired one of the purple and dark purple-trim critters. "I hate fire."

"Fiiirrreee!" growled all the little puffed and arched cats, hissing defensively.

"Representation!" Bubba Bubbaphant emphasized. "Can I please begin to explain..."

He felt a small hoof tapping his upper back.

"Yes... my dear Piggy?"

"But what is rep- representation?"

Mostly all the critters below them were jerking their withers. Bubba exhaled through a dark blue nose and reopened his eyes.

"Representation portrays what is being discussed... Pictures."  

The group of toys slowly nodded in understanding. 

"Thanks, Bub!" Picky whispered gratefully.

The little elephant viewed his devoted companions and his impatience faded, thanks to their uplifting faces.

"Nestling is a quiet township," he resumed. "I was unable to define the number of residents, but I've learned that it is small and close to our warehouse. I surmise an hour walk if we move quickly."

Within the cluster, a dark pink hoof went in the air and Bubba nodded, holding the ruler in their direction.

"Will there be any snacks on this trip?"

Bubba swayed his head. "Apologies, but there won't be any snacks."

The little pig crossed their legs and pouted with their fellow pink kin.

Bubba flapped an ear at DogDay, giving him the incentive to lift the paper. The plush pachyderm tapped the numbered stick to the drawing of many Smiling Critters, assembled in shared colors.

"There will be four groups. Each of these groups will have two hundred critters, containing two lines..." He signaled to his orange friend. "...The DogDay line with the CatNaps..."

The little dogs bobbed their heads while some of the critters elbowed many of the dozing cats, inciting them to wake up and give a claws up.

Bubba gestured to the rest of the leading critters and whom they were standing with.

"...The CraftyCorn line with the Bobbies..."

The aforementioned critters beamed and clapped their hooves and paws merrily.

"...The KickinChickens with the Hoppies..."

The plush avians and bunnies grinned, their wings and paws pumping the air.

"...And last but not least, my line with the PickyPiggies."

The blue and pink toys bowed and waved to one another. 

"Now... we have three steps to ensure success..."

Bubba waited for DogDay to reveal the next sheet of a bunch of the plush toys marching with an overly happy reddish sun overhead.

"Step one... as the doubled pairs, we begin the journey at dusk. Although we can see quite well in the dark, it's safer for us to move with some natural light."

The next artwork was of all the toys dispersing in four different horizontal directions.

"Step two... Once at Nestling, we will spread out in the double pairs through the town in the evening and hide undercover."

Bubba waited for his friend to turn the following page which was a bunch of stick people drawn in the bottom corners. And in the center of the sheet, were critters peeking out, around and on top of bushes.

"And step three... At noon, when the humans are most active, we together, overthrow the town!" Bubba looked at the crowd. "Yes, a question?"

A lifted white limb in the rainbow huddle went down. "Why are we holding pitchforks?"

Bubba Bubbaphant groaned and CraftyCorn took a small step forth on the crate.

"Tee-hee... Sorry," the plush equine apologized in a soft and shy tone. "I was trying to make it exciting,"

"Oohh," lightly drawled her smiling kin in understanding. "It is!"

"Yeah, it's just... representation!" added PickyPiggy with a wink.

The proud little elephant gazed at his supportive pink pal. "Thanks, Piggy..." He fronted the quiet assembly once more. "Does anyone else have more questions?"

A dark blue front foot in the crowd arose. "How will we all know when it's noon?"

Bubba's open mouth curved broadly. "Yes, a great query! Hoppy, if you would..."

Hoppy Hopscotch leaped in front and held and rotated her left limb, wriggling little digits. Aweing, all the hundreds of critters marveled at the soft rainbow band, wrapped just below the dark green paw.

"Every critter will be given this watch to know the precise time. It also has an alarm feature which will help us tremendously."

The questioning critter smiled with a short bob of the head while Bubba looked at his swinging green friend.

"Thank you, Hoppy."

The little rabbit bounced to her place and spied KickinChicken with an emerging grin on his beak.

"What's up with you?" Hoppy asked, narrowing an eye.

"Hops was all fancy wancy!" he clucked teasingly, lifting his head and wing melodramatically while fluttering his eyelids.

"Oh, and Kicks is just jealous!" quipped Hoppy, razzing a tiny tongue.

"Excuse me," peeped out a little bear. "I understand the plan. But how do we take over the town though?"

"Yeah," chipped in one of their green kin. "I know ya said there shouldn't be too many humans. But... they're still... y'know, humans."

"Uh-huh," agreed one of the plush equines, reaching near their horn. "Humans are so very... big. While we're... um..." They put their hoof down. "...so very... not."

Bubba Bubbaphant and DogDay bowed their heads at each other. This inquiry was well expected. The plush pachyderm rumbled humorously, gesturing his ruler towards the little dog beside him who sat down. And with paws underneath a yellow jaw, he widened his eyes with a small pout.

"Look at us! We're adorable!" declared Bubba. "The humans will be confused by our ambush. At first, they'll consider us as nothing more than cute and fuzzy, battery-operated toys. But once the humans realize we are truly alive, we will emit scary sounds and..!"

Bubba paused dramatically and DogDay stood up to reveal the final picture.

"...that will startle the bewildered humans, scaring them out of the town for good!"

The listening toys viewed where the little elephant was pointing: a depiction of delighted, scribbled critters all around little box houses. But this time, the illustrated mini critters were colored in red... with everything else.

"Nestling will be our forever home!" Bubba trumpeted, dropping the ruler to the cement. "The Smiling Nestlings!"

"...The Smiling Whu?" muttered many perplexed voices.

Bubba cleared his throat. "Um... name pending."    

A yellow critter flapped to gain Bubba's attention. "But what if the humans ain't afraid of us? Or call the police or something?"

Bubba Bubbaphant held his bouncing belly, laughing away.

"These humans will be too stunned to do anything but run! And authorities receiving a call about a mob of eighteen-inch tall plushies overthrowing a town? Why, no sane human being would believe that!"

The critters resumed murmuring to one another apprehensively, followed by a plush pachyderm raising a trunk to be noticed by their leader.

"This may sound strange coming from a toy, but this plan sounds... unrealistic to me."

"Yeah," shouted a little dog, right by them. "And Unkie D said to pretend not to be alive around humans."

The rest of the group mumbled while nodding to each other.

DogDay stepped closer to the edge of the crate and held his chest.

"Every critter... I know we've kept this rule to heart, but I promise you, we only have to surprise the humans this one time. This's our one chance at freedom, happiness, and true homes of our own without causing harm." The little dog lifted his clenched paws. "I know we can all do this! We need to! For us! For Unkie D... For all of them."

The large collection of mini Smiling Critters peered at their feet with whines mixed with not only heartache but with disconcertedness. Their leaders stood quietly, giving them time to mull over everything that had been said. It was quite a lot to sink in for the passive little beings.

Ultimately, a little rabbit in front of the crowd hopped out.

"Maybe this whole bankrupt thing will stop soon."

Bubba exchanged looks among his companions, then to the mulling little toy.

"Apologies, but I don't find that'll ever happen-"  

"Yeah! Wait it out just for a bit!" chimed in another plush bunny, jumping beside them.

"I agree!" a little pig shouted. "I mean, it's not like we lost any power yet!"

Abruptly, a whoosh and clank boomed through the wide warehouse. The crowd of critters gasped, veering their heads around the unlit lobby. Except for the plush felines shrugging and blinking their reflective eyes indifferently.

With bated breath, the leaders of the Smiling Critters eyed each other, then at the multitude of tiny toys, quietly standing in the dark and dead silent warehouse... 

"We'll be the Smiling Nestlings: name pending!" the mass cheerily shouted together.

The leaders finally exhaled and happily stepped down the large crate, thanks to small parcels that were stacked as stairs. They waddled off to intermingle with their designated lines. DogDay's eyes and smile continued to shine with relief as he beheld his good friends talking encouragingly to the motivated, happy toys.

DogDay idly observed the castoff, numbered stick in his paws. Then, within that minute of waiting, the top of his ears perked at a familiar sound from behind.

"Hey... What'd I miss?"

With a heightened mouth-line, the plush canine laid the ruler down and fronted his purring, purple pal.

"Everything, per usual."

The duo sat on their hindquarters, facing each other and the little dog canted his head.

"So, Naps... were you napping?"

CatNap slowly blinked at his pal.

"No."

"Okay." DogDay briefly scanned the dim chamber. "So y'know the power went down?"

Another gradual closing and reopening of bright eyes.

"Yes."

"Hmmm..." DogDay raised and laced his front limbs. "Happen to know where the fuse box is?"

"...Nooo."

DogDay discerned the grin and intensified purring of the unblinking plush feline. And with a wink, the little dog's perky and optimistic smile altered into a knowing yet grateful smirk.

"I'll take that 'no' as a very precise... yes."

Chapter Text

As the light emitting through the sparse, barred windows dimmed to a warm orange, hundreds of mini Smiling Critters returned to the lobby of Cube Bee's Toys. The little plush animals scurried forth in their specific lines and with their group of partnered critters until they reached the entryway of the warehouse.

Sitting by the front entrance were five of the leading critters. In the center of the little row, DogDay fronted all his kin, putting his front left limb way up.

"Now, does every critter have the correct time on their watch and the alarm set for tomorrow at noon?"     

All the toys rambled positively while holding up limbs that were strapped with the rainbow band.

Great!" barked DogDay, doing a little bounce.

Next to him, Bubba Bubbaphant tapped his timepiece with his trunk.

"And to be sure everyone is alerted precisely, make sure your watch is synchronized."

All the critters, including his friends beside him, were glancing at each other, to and fro. Deadpanning, Bubba felt a familiar tapping over his wither. And before his pink pal uttered her question, he gestured to a nearby hung clock.

"Synchronize means everyone's watch has the correct and exact time."

Picky Piggy beamed. "As always, thanks, Bub!" And she attended to her watch as did the others.  

As the leaders turned and craned their little round heads at the broad, double-locked metallic door before them, CraftyCorn and Bobby BearHug sprinted and galloped to them, sharing dismayed frowns.

"We're sorry... DogDay," huffed the plush ursine. "We... couldn't find any keys."

Her friends silently gasped. DogDay scanned the awaiting critters, making certain they had not heard of this disheartening news. Fortunately, the toys were too busy sparring with one another; practicing adorable and intimidation techniques of enlarged eyes and tongue-bleps, followed by small roars and air swiping.  

"Really? Not even one?" the little dog asked quietly.   

"Not even one," Crafty repeated sorrowfully. "Me and Bee checked everything and everywhere in the office."

Pondering for a moment, the plush canine discerned the keyhole in the center of the doorknob.

"Maybe our CatNap can lock-pick like he's done with the other doors."

He and his friends looked around themselves. No visual of the elusive little cat anywhere.

Bubba rubbed under his jaw as he squinted his sights at the steel latch.

"This door's mechanism appears much stronger than the rest of the doors. I'm uncertain that tiny claws would have any positive results."

Hoppy Hopscotch stared at the foot of the locked entrance. "What if we try gnawing our way out like we did on the bottom of our old shipping crate?"   

"But chew on metal?" Picky questioned with a disdained snort. "I don't care how much iron that'd be... No, thank you!"

KickinChicken reared his face at the narrow knob. "Well... what if the door's unlocked?"

Slowly, Bubba moved his head from side to side. "Apologies, Kickin, but I highly doubt it would be unlocked. Management made sure to always secure the entrance and exit of this warehouse."

DogDay hummed in thought. "It's worth a try, Bubba." With a returned smile, he nodded at the grinning plush bunny. "Hoppy, do your thing."

"Ya don't need to ask me twice!" she remarked, rubbing eager little paws together.

As she'd done many times beforehand with other doors, Hoppy bounded underneath the lengthy handle. And with a firm hop, she clung on. Within that second, the latch descended.

"Hey, I heard a click! It can be opened!"

Every critter wiggled, jumped, and cheered at the little rabbit's triumph. All accept her gaping blue friend.

"Management didn't remember to lock the front door?!"

Picky and DogDay patted Bubba's back.

"Guess they aren't elephants," commented the plush canine, lifting his paws with a happy shrug.

"Hey... guys..," called out Hoppy between grunts. "Don't... leave me hanging!"

"Oh, right!" DogDay waved toward the dangling rabbit. "C'mon, guys!"

Once they were all huddled by the door, Bubba craned his head and with his long nose, curved around his green friend's ankles. Soon, the plush pachyderm's short torso was being towed by a chain of his close companions. It took a lot of groans and some effort from the mighty little toys, but ultimately, the entrance was soon, wide open.

However, the front door was self-closing. The seven leaders swiveled and with front limbs spread out, they pushed as much force as their little backs could muster. But in spite of their efforts, the big and lofty door was winning.

The plush audience was about to contribute, but Bubba shook his head curtly.

"Hoppy!" He pointed his trunk upwards. "The doorstop!"

The little rabbit spotted the little metal ring on the above pole.

"We've got this! Ready again, Kicks?"

KickinChicken rushed in front of her and lowered his durable plushy wings, crossing them.

"Go for it, Hops!'

Hoppy, true to her name, leaped onto her pal's awaiting aid. And with a bounce, she grabbed onto the top rod, pushing the ring forward.

Everyone cheerfully shouted at their leaders' success. Hoppy's six friends caught her, granting a safe landing.

Admiring his green and yellow friends, DogDay's mouth was as wide and joyful as his whirling tail.

"Awesome teamwork, guys!" the little dog looked to the rest of his friends. "And to all of you, too!"

CraftyCorn and PickyPiggy beamed at each other for the surprising adroitness of their hooves. And grinning proudly, Kicken strutted up to Hoppy who was shaking her knitted paws over her head, taking in the cheers.

"That was radical, Hops! Ya reached the top of that door like it was nothing and without wings!" The little chicken's beak-line raised with an idea. "Hey, since we'll be free, maybe ya can teach me how to make those rad hops to the moon!"

Rolling her eyes, the plush bunny scoffed playfully.

"To the moon? Don't be silly, Kicks!" Beaming, she laid her paws onto her short hips. "But I'll teach ya how to hop on trees and houses though!"

Kicken's grin curved higher. "You're on!"

Once all the critters became a little calmer, the seven leaders slowly about-faced a meter away from the now open entryway of Cube Bee's Toys. And with broad sights, they stood upright together, once more.

Exhaling sharply, DogDay peered over his wither at all the timid toys.

"Please wait, everyone. Your leaders will step out first."

Without a second of consideration, all the critters quietly bobbed their heads in approval.

Bobby BearHug's round ears detected sniffling. She turned on her right to find CraftyCorn no longer adorning the mini belt bag and Velcro strap.

"Oh, CeeCee!" She instantly wrapped a limb over her pal's teal mane. "What's the matter? Did ya lose your things?"

"Nuh-uh," responded the little unicorn with another snuffle. "I gave them to Fuzzy."

Bobby reared her view to see where the shaky little hoof was indicating. It was the logo sign of the Cube Bee's Toys' mascot.

Crafty slumped her limb. "I left my stuff and hung some of my art to help 'er remember us."

Bobby beamed warmly at the plush equine's youthful worries over the illustrated, cube-shaped bumblebee.

"That's very thoughtful, CeeCee."

Crafty's mouth-line curled but it was quivering.

"Bee?"

The little bear tilted her head. "Yes?"

"She reminds me of our CB... She-She also liked honey... very much."

Swallowing, Bobby pulled the low-whinnying unicorn in for a light and consoling hug.

"Yeah, I know, CeeCee... I know~"

At the comforting little bear's left, KickinChicken idly scratched the stitched 1 hidden underneath his plushy head feathers and turned to his fidgeting green pal beside him.

"Hey, Hops... are, are ya scared?"

Hoppy stilled herself, all except her wiggling nose.

"I'm-I'm scared?" She raised her ears. "Of course not! Um... How about you?"

"N-Nah... but... ya wanna hold my wing, anyways?"

"Uh..." The offered feathered limb was quickly clasped. "Sure! Heh! Why not!"

After a few more edgy chuckles, Hoppy peeked at Bobby BearHug. The red and pink-trim critter was idly peering down at the cement floor, and Hoppy elbowed for her yellow pal's attention. At first, he was confused, until a long ear was gestured to the nervous little bear.

Clearing his crop, the plush avian regarded Bobby.

"Hey... Hugs, would ya like to hold my wing, too? ...Not that I'm scared or anything."

With her frown upturned, Bobby's soft paw clung to the plushy plumes.

"Thanks, Kicky." She beamed thankfully and hearteningly. "And don't worry. I know you're super brave... and awesome."

"Heh...heh... yeah."

Meanwhile, CraftyCorn's grief had lightened after she heard the soft rumbles and clucky trills. Smiling, she beheld her two close companions focusing their support for each other.

"Awww~ That's so- NAY!"

The plush equine startled her companions. DogDay whipped his head toward his white and teal friend.

"Crafty, what is it?!"

"S-Some-thing just brushed up against m-me! It was-!"

She veered over her withers, just in time to glimpse a moving, lengthy purple tail.

"Oh, tee-hee..." Crafty's pinned little ears shot up. "Never mind!"

With a sigh, DogDay sidestepped to give CatNap a spot to stand with him in the middle of their group. But when the little dog glanced at the plush feline, his smile dropped like a stone and he hastily averted his wide sights...

There was a thin and prickly leg from some indiscernible insect, sticking out of CatNap's muzzle.

PickyPiggy, next to Bubba and DogDay, heard the light crunching and grinned.

"Hi, CatNap! What goodies did ya find?! Can ya share..?"

The little pig canted her view at DogDay. He was shaking his head, followed by making wriggling motions with little digits. Immediately, Picky grasped the hint and made a puckered frown.

"Ya know what, it's alright. I'm not hungry!"

Her blue pal's trunk almost released the map and popped a stitching in his neck from hearing Picky's statement and quickly felt her brow for a fever.

CatNap licked his mouth-line clear of any flecks of carapace and observed his companions.

"Hey... What'd I miss?"

KickenChicken and Hoppy Hopscotch sulked because of their purple friend's absence when they opened the enormous front door.

"Everything..." "...Per usual," they said flatly.  

The plush feline briefly lifted his withers coolly, then his right ear twitched. He saw DogDay sitting and trying to stop an itch again. The little dog stopped grunting and fidgeting when his squinting eye saw the familiar, purple toe-beans extended to him, followed by a favorite low and calm rumble.

Breathing out, DogDay accepted the paw and was helped to an upright stance. His mien matched his pal's again.

"Thanks, Naps."

The little leaders bridged their front limbs. And after a moment to gather their bearings, they took short, cautious paces until their bottom feet and hooves met the grass.

Real. Green. Grass.

The critters stomped and padded in place. The grass was really like how they imagined... soft and springy. The toys' tiny nostrils and black noses took in the spring breeze. And the heavy dread within them transcended to light inquisitiveness as they observed the natural realm. Albeit, they had admired it countless times. However, seeing and smelling the world without bars and panes was breathtaking... and free.

The leaders of the Smiling Critters were finally outside, and it was such a contrast to the colorless, drab warehouse. An emerald-sheathed earth underneath a vibrant orange sky. And when they peeped at the lowering sun peering through the cottony clouds, the concept of leaving their familiarity behind wasn't so frightful anymore.

DogDay fronted the awaiting critters still inside the lobby.

"Okay, every critter, this is it! Before we begin step one of our mission, does anyone have anything else they'd like to ask?"

Instantly, a hundred dark pink hooves went in the air, including his pink friend's. DogDay planted his red-orange patch into an awaiting paw.

"As discussed before," He lifted his head, "there won't be any snacks on this trip."

All the limbs slumped down with displeased snuffles.

"Okay!" The little orange leader smiled broadly once more. "Is every critter ready?!"

Yeses resounded within the large lobby. Some of the toys were sniffing the outside air and in the back, others were hopping to catch a glimpse of the world, too.

Looking at CatNap, DogDay's beam grew more confident, and proudly nodded with him. All of their kin were certainly ready. 

Then, after three decades, the mini Smiling Critters vacated the warehouse that was Cube Bee's Toys.

Beneath the deepening golden-brown sky, near an isolated dirt road, hundreds of moving, shiny white optics peered through the high grassy weeds. Making sure to stay together, the plush animals swiftly waddled and tread in their own lines while maintaining a pace as fast as their little legs could go. Only stopping to duck down out of sight whenever a lone car drove by. Excluding all the plush avians, everyone else resumed their comfortable quadrupedal movement.

Some of the critters ignored their empty stomachs to graze. They needed to reach Nestling quickly and safely; neither wanting to be discovered by drivers nor any predators.

In front of the two plush rows were the eight little leaders. KickinChicken held the open map as they moved, so Bubba Bubbaphant's trunk wouldn't cramp up. And partway during their travel, the plush pachyderm agreed to give his tired pink pal a piggyback ride. 

After slightly over an hour of trailing a path that seemed to bring them to nothing but more path, something new brought them out of their monotony.

The toys halted. And rearing bright little faces, they observed the big white board attached to a wooden post. It was painted with the blue italic letters: Welcome to Nestling.

Both sets of eyes of CraftyCorn and Bobby BearHug drifted to the bottom artwork; a pair of bluebirds perched on a nest that held their young.  

"Oohh!" The little unicorn neighed with delight. "So pretty!"

"It is very pretty, CeeCee," remarked her red pal, elevating her paw. "But look there."

Underneath the illustrated feathery family, most of the toys read the smaller writing...

Population: 800.

Oh... I see what ya mean, Bee," Crafty felt all four of her legs tense up. "Eight hundred humans is... a lot of humans."

"But most likely, some will be children," Bubba Bubbaphant reassured. "While we aren't scaring the children, they will aid us by encouraging the worried adults to flee the town much faster. It won't be too hard."

Smiling, he pointed his trunk to his purple friend. "See? Our CatNap isn't worried about it!" 

The seven critters stared at the sitting plush feline... His eyelids were fully down. The little leaders turned their view and found CatNap's entire purple kin completely unaware of their surroundings.

With a low rumble, the annoyed elephant nosed CatNap until he flittered his droopy eyelids open.

"Hey... What'd I miss?"

"Everything, per usual." Bubba sighed heavily. "For the love of literature, CatNap, how can you and your entire line go to slumber right now?"

The little cat let out a drawn-out yawn. "Hiking makes us sleepy."

"Breathing makes you cats sleepy!" Hoppy stated, eliciting a titter out of Crafty.

After another display of little pointy teeth from another deep respire, CatNap's eyes broadened when he finally focused on the large lettering on the big board.

"Hey!" he hissed out, waking up his dozing kin. He indicated with a paw. "Nessst...ling..."

"Nessst...ling..!" rasped the ninety-nine, grinning plush felines.

"Ugh, now he's got all of 'em saying it that way!" mumbled KickinChicken with a shiver.  

Clicking a small tongue, Bubba shook his head. "I guess I need to repeat myself about the human numbers again, eh, DogDay?"

No response. The plush pachyderm blinked at his mute leader.

"DogDay?"

On all fours, the plush canine's entire self was rapidly swaying in sync with his little plush appendage.

Flapping big ears, Bubba chortled. "Wow, I guess this is how the idiom: the tail that wags the dog originated-"        

"IT'S A SIGN!" DogDay exclaimed, causing his friends to gasp and hop off the ground right along with him.

Bobby wobbled closer and placed a paw over one of the wriggling dog's withers.

"Yes, DogDay... We see it, too!"

"What? No, Bobby! Not about the sign being an actual sign! I mean what it's signing to us!"

Panting, DogDay bounded up to the tall pole and swerved around it three times before sitting up on his back paws.

"Population... eight hundred!" He patted his plushy chest firmly. "There's eight hundred of us! Don't ya see? Nestling is meant to be our home!" 

The hundreds of critters before their leaders wriggled and capered where they stood.

"The Smiling Nestlings: name pending!" the little followers decreed.

With a snort, Picky Piggy smirked at her sheepish blue pal.

"I can't believe ya started that, Bub."

"Okay, every critter!" shouted DogDay excitedly as he rejoined his friends. "Step one is completed! Now, for step two!"

Bubba stood up waving his front feet. "It's time to spread out in our doubled pairs and hide undercover... Your leaders will guide you where to go for step three... The final stage of our mission: takeover Nestling, tomorrow at noon-"

"Excuse me, Bub," Picky lightly interrupted, sitting up and sadly stroking a protesting stomach. "Could we do it a little sooner? I'm really hungry..."

"But noon is when humans are most active," DogDay reminded. "They are usually out, enjoying their lunch."

"Mmmm! Lunch..." drawled all the little pigs.

All the other critters nervously sidestepped out of their reach.

Wiggling his brow and with a lopsided smile, Bubba leaned into his orange friend's floppy ear.

"Not helping... DogDay..."

The plush canine returned the smirk. "Okay, Bubba, touché." He looked at his hungry friend's line. "We shouldn't change the timing of our mission." He crossed his limbs. "And for the last time, no one is eating anyone." 

Picky tapped her small lower jaw. "How about we do the takeover at eleven a.m.? Please?"

Her eager line made pouty, pleading faces. DogDay and Bubba glanced at their watches and shrugged at each other.

"Sure," conceded the little dog. "Eleven a.m. is a fair compromise."

All the pink toys oinked gleefully. They weren't certain what 'compromise' was, but a whole hour earlier was a whole hour sooner of snacking!

Once everyone had reset their alarms to the aforementioned new time, the eight leaders viewed the distant town. Shielding their eyes from the setting sunlight, they could make out small rooftops of cape cod-style dwellings, multiple blooming trees and dense evergreens, and some other undefined locations that looked enticing. It was all... homey. 

The leaders conversed for a few minutes and concluded on which directions they would take their groups in Nestling.

DogDay and CatNap chose to go northwest, while KickinChicken and Hoppy Hopscotch decided on the northeast.

CraftyCorn and Bobby BearHug to go southwest, whereas Bubba Bubbaphant and PickyPiggy to head southeast of the town.

The toys weren't exactly sure why they chose these paths, but somehow, they felt in their plushy cores that these routes would be the best for them.

"So, gang, ya ready?" DogDay asked.

Crafty was twiddling a hoof and swishing her plush, hairy tail, however, her smile never waned.

"Y-yes, I am! I am a little nervous nellie, but I know it'll all be worth it!"

"Very true, CeeCee," agreed Bobby. "Like DogDay said. A place where we'll all be happy and free."

The little bear waddled to their leader and outstretched her limbs, clinging on tightly.

"One more hug to hold you off."

The plush canine returned the warm squeeze, and he heard soft sniffles.

"Awww, it's alright, Bobby!" He rubbed her back. "This isn't goodbye! I promise we'll all be saying hello again before ya know it."

"I know," she crooned. "But you know me!"

She gave him one more cuddle before returning to her white and teal pal.

Meanwhile, Hoppy Hopscotch was bouncing in place, and KickinChicken's tiny talons were scratching the ground.

"Kicks and I are ready to get this done!"

"Booyah! Super ready!" 

The corner of DogDay's mouth tugged upwards. By the active nose and ruffled plushy feathers, he could see his two friends were anxious. Nevertheless, their chipper, outgoing, and cool, assertive tones, disclosed they were opting on completing this mission. The duo had gumption and were analogous to relatives who engaged in friendly rivalry. This helped the little dog repress another edgy ear scratching.

"I'm ready, too!" PickyPiggy oinked. "Are we sure the map doesn't show where the apple trees are?"

She went to pick up the nearby map, but a warm gust swiped it out of reach.

"Hey, come back!" squealed the plush sow as she started to trot after it.

"Let it go, Piggy," Bubba Bubbaphant called out. "We'll find your apple trees on our own."

"But, Bub, I don't want to litter!"

Bubba smiled. Despite his pal's messy dinner manners, she was such a tidy little pig.

"It's not littering, Piggy. It's...um..."

"Recycling!" finished DogDay. "Maybe someday, a runaway critter who needs a home can use it to find us." He spread out his front limbs. "And we will welcome them with open paws!"  

Picky beamed and Bubba made a deep bow of his head at the plush canine, placing a front foot over his back.

"Much obliged, DogDay."

After Bubba treaded to Picky, DogDay turned toward CatNap. Being so silent, the little dog thought that his pal had fallen asleep again. But no. On his haunches, he was slowly blinking at their future dwellings, seemingly lost in his thoughts.

DogDay discerned the calm cat's countenance; a closed and widespread, dreamy smile; resembling the one he had exhibited when he first agreed to take on the mission with his friends...

A loud gurgling arose from CatNap's underbelly that was louder than their pink, eager, and sweet friend's stomach. Stroking his tail, CatNap bashfully smirked, and DogDay chuckled along with him.

"I guess I don't have to ask if you're ready, huh, Naps?"

CatNap licked the inside of his mouth while producing an anticipated purr.

"Ready for real food, D.D.? Emmm... Yesss."    

His orange pal bobbed his head. That was probably the reason for the plush feline's wistful expression. He was just keen on eating like everyone else.

With a waggling tail, DogDay put a limb forward, looking at each and one of his good and longtime, favorite companions.

"For Unkie D..."

Beaming determinedly, the seven critters circled their number 1 leader, and placed a paw atop the other, one by one.

"For Unkie D!"

Then, the leaders of the Smiling Critters dispersed, going to the front of their lines. And with stern nods and waves, the four groups composed of eight hundred, strongminded little toys, concertedly trod to the quiet and unsuspecting small township of Nestling.

It was step three. Still undercover, with a small, yellow abdomen on crumbly dirt, DogDay watched with growing concern. He fully knew where his ninety-nine orange kin were. They were all concealing themselves around this elected, outdoor area to ambush the humans.

However, the little dog couldn't pinpoint where his CatNap was, nor a single sign of any of his feline followers. DogDay didn't understand. They were all just together moments ago... Where in this big, scary world did they go?

DogDay was shrouded under a big rose bush. And he so wished he had not picked this spot! The thorns were minuscule but still sharper than any tacks that he had the misfortune of padding on the warehouse floor. The olive spiky tips pricked the toy's plush if he shifted roughly. Unfortunately, it was too late to locate a new camouflage.

Presently, many humans were enjoying the warm, mid-morning air and woodsy atmosphere. A tiny whimper escaped the little dog's yellow muzzle as his wide eyes stared upwards at the towering beings.

Kickin was right. Humans were, indeed, pretty scary! 

Suddenly, a big rodent with a plumy tail darted past, and it took everything for DogDay to not bark and dash after it. He wondered if this was how CatNap felt whenever he was hunting...

Swallowing, the plush canine glanced at his rainbow watch and licked his nose.

Ten fifty-seven a.m... Only three minutes away.

How he yearned to hear his purple pal's tranquil purrs! DogDay halted a small yip. His hind leg was attempting to lift toward his ear and a pesky thorn reminded him exactly where he was hiding.

The little dog closed his eyes in full concentration. His elevated back paw retouched the grass. Of course, he and his best friend would be together again, like always. But this time, the opposite pair's lives would not entail being controlled by humans. DogDay and CatNap would enjoy their friendship, happy and free, forever. Exactly as their treasured elder had wished for all of them.

Light, digital music began to play from DogDay's left, front limb. He jerked his view at the little timepiece.

It was eleven o'clock a.m.

DogDay saw the many red-orange paws emerging from other shrubs and greeneries, and he detained a big breath for a moment...

"FOR UNKIE D!"

And following the rallying call of their leader, the mini Smiling Critters charged in plain sight.

Chapter Text

While another segment was finishing, a middle-aged, poised woman stood near a green and lush area in a town, designed as a park to engage in outdoor activities. She straightened her tan and brown skirt suit and prepared a polished smile when she heard the producer's voice in her earpiece.

"I'm here in the usually sleepy town of Nestling, and we have something so unexplainable, it just might keep you awake from bewilderment for the rest of your life. Thanks to patrons of the discreet town's family-owned shops through word of mouth, we've become aware of this unexplainable event and ELW4 has the exclusive."

The anchor lifted her channel's mic closer. While slowly moving her high heels past a brightly painted fire hydrant, her polished nails gesticulated to the vacant, serene scenery.

"The surprising phenomenon occurred all over this community, including this small but immaculate park. Precisely last week at eleven a.m., the entire town of Nestling was... overrun with hundreds of eighteen-inch, robotic plush toys that harbored animatronic properties. No one knows how these mysterious plushies arrived. However, residents confirmed a nearby online retailer that sold children's items by the name of Cube Bee's Toys. We contacted the founder, Barry Hoffman. Regrettably, Mister Hoffman was unavailable for comment and is currently filing for bankruptcy.

"None of these realistically detailed, stuffed animals have the usual 'tush' tag. Whether any labels were removed or were never sewn on is unclear. But by these toys' designs, our conclusion is they must be highly animated versions of the toy mascots, referred to as the Smiling Critters. A line made back in nineteen eighty-nine by the obsolete giant manufacturer of the self-proclaimed toy innovator, the Playtime Company.

"We have never seen anything so convincingly alive before. For toys crafted in the twentieth century to have such an A.I. capability is outstanding, and we'd love to learn how this was achieved. Unfortunately, all of Playtime Co.'s proprietors have seemingly ghosted, and there hasn't been any information about the mega toy factory for thirty years. So, how and why this toy horde arrived will most likely forever stay as an enigma." 

The anchor came across activity and considering it an appropriate backdrop for the coverage, she halted her gradual pacing, fronting forward once more.

"But for the following, pleasant people of Nestling, who testify to bear witness to some of the toys that had led the... assault, don't seem to mind the intrusion in the slightest."

Behind vast amounts of paintings, a tall and clean-cut man, wearing a speckled smock, looked straight ahead.

"I found this little Picasso marveling at my work. She's quite the marvel herself."

Cradled in the nook of the artist's arm and beaming shyly, CraftyCorn waved her custom Velcro banded hoof with a damp paintbrush.

"This picture right here is her masterpiece. Tulips are my Prism's specialty... Oh, excuse me."

Smiling, the artist took out a handkerchief and began cleaning the red splotches from the plush equine's white nose, causing it to wriggle.

"Achoo! Tee-hee!"

-"My Bubbie makes sure that all of my students' homework is in alphabetical order," proclaimed a formally dressed woman. "And he's great at sniffing out cheat sheets."

Behind her and sitting atop a desk, Bubba Bubbaphant dutifully lifted papers with the tip of his prehensile nose.

"I taught him to do that with his trunk..." The teacher giggled. "It helps when one doesn't have any fingers."

-A happy elder sitting on a loveseat, gazed at the rumbling red and pink-trim critter on his lap.

"This little ball of love jumped onto my ol' Santa belly. My grandkids adore her. How can they not? Just look at her!"

The bearded man picked up the plush ursine but not before drumming his fingers over the little pink belly.

"Hee-hee!"

"I was busy in a big Bingo session when we met... and I was winning by the way. But little Lovey taught me the best time for a hug is anytime!"

Cuddling, Bobby BearHug rumbled louder while rubbing her plush cheek with the elder's bristly one.

-In front of a tea and coffee shop, a couple stood behind one of the patio tables.

"Our girl knows how to pick the best apples from our trees for the customers' favorite cinnamon crumble pie. And she helps us create new sweets for our dessert menu."

They looked down at the occupied flat furniture, and one of them bent their torso forward.

"How is it, Pinky Girl?"

Wearing a bib and sitting on a bunch of books atop a patio chair, PickyPiggy merrily licked powdered sugar from her snout and nodded rapidly, giving a confirmed snort.

The spouse straightened and beamed at her husband who shook his shoulders, chortling.

"Who knew peanut butter and jelly would make for a tasty filling for cannoli!"

During the interview clips, the anchor was uncomprehendingly watching people engaging with the artificial yet fluid animals that seemed to be giggling with joy as they played together... 

The anchor's earpiece regained her attention... Tersely, she about-faced the teleprompter, bringing up the microphone to gaping, red lips.

"A'hem... So, within an hour of the cute invasion, these amazing toys have taken over the entire hearts of the townsfolk. And because we have neither connection with the Playtime Company nor Cube Bee's Toys, figuring out how these vintage plushies can interact and synthetically eat like biological creatures or why the eight hundred toys were sporting children's watches, remains unknown. But one thing appears undeniably certain..."

The park view entailed people with the starred plush animals, playing with a Frisbee, eating at benches, and performing yoga.

"...These families are living the dream with the Smiling Nestlings... In the township of Nestling, Wisconsin... I'm...  Wait!"

The teleprompter's camera quickly panned back to the bemused woman.

"I-I thought they were called the Smiling Critters?" She flittered her extended lashes. "Wh-What's next to the control panel?"

"Sorry!" called out the teacher from one of the played clips, scooping up the plush pachyderm who had decided to assist the stunned operator of the teleprompter. "My class was on an education walk and I turned around for two seconds."

The teacher walked up to her while nuzzling the rumbling little elephant.

"Sometimes, my Bubbie is too bright for his own good!"

The stock-still anchor's pupils darted to the teleprompter, then to Bubba, holding up his trunk, smiling proudly.

"These toys can TYPE, too? What in the actual-?!"

"Language, please!" the pouting educator interjected. "My students are present!"

The anchor looked to her side as the teacher returned to a dozen awaiting children and a dozen, assorted, tittering toys. And among them was a plush bunny showing off her hops and a plush avian, flexing his wings for the camera.

The gleeful group began waving, triggering the anchor to slowly wave back.

"Uh... Hi..." She dropped her hand. "...I need a drink."

Then, she remembered the held mic. Lowering it, her eyes darted to the cameraperson.

"Don't forget to edit that out."

"We're live," muttered the crew member.

Rearing her head, the uptight woman screwed her eyes shut.

"Son of a-"

Click.

The recording stopped as the television screen flashed off, and a young woman lounging in her bed returned the remote to a nearby nightstand.

"Hey..." Light brown eyes descended to the small bump underneath the covers. "Did ya catch your friends on the news?" 

Slowly, she unveiled the purple and dark purple-trim cat on his back, utterly oblivious to everything around him.

With small, curved lips, Erin gently tapped the small ebony tongue, instigating a sleepy chirp.

"Hmm-hmm, you missed everything, per usual."

Her long and glossy nails scratched underneath the little craning jaw, while front paws kneaded the air in total bliss.

"Don't worry, we can rewatch it later."

She looked over the drowsy little being and she smirked lightly.

"That station thinks you guys are just super advanced robo-toys." She began stroking the full, purple belly. "But we nestlings know better, huh?"

The reply was loud purrs and a heavy bow of the head. Erin shrugged with a chuckle.

"Yep... miracles are meant to be embraced, not questioned."

The little cat’s black maw was briefly exposed before blinking irregularly. With a yawn herself, Erin glanced at a hanging, violet KitKat clock.

"You're right, time to sleep. Those nursery songs won't create themselves."

After dimming her smart lamps, she shut off her phone and placed it on the small table. Then, sliding down onto the cushy, sheeted mattress, the relaxed woman tucked herself and the serene plush feline in for the night.

"Sweet dreams, Napster."

Once the slender arm laced around the plush torso, the little cat snuggled in closer, and his alluring rumbles allowed the big soft-spoken being to serenely drift off.

With a wide grin, CatNap sighed heavenly. Never before, was he so contented and so well-fed. No more eking out an existence in a cramped and cold warehouse. No more dusty shelves, uncomfortably hard windows and chairs. And no more unsavory scraps or bitter bugs. Just good food, good naps, and warm devotion... So much devotion.

His mouth-line arched higher. This turned out better than he'd visualized.

CatNap allowed his heavy lids to fall. But after only ten minutes of rest, his small ear rotated to the sound of something clicking on one of the windowpanes.

With a growly groan, CatNap hid his face and clung onto the snuggly, protective arm; trying to block out the small but still very annoying noise. He really didn't want to leave his place on the bed. He was all toasty and cozy!

Alas, as bad luck would have it, the small clanks remained constant. CatNap growled at himself for something that he'd never admit to anyone...

Sometimes, having super-sensitive hearing to locate potential prey was a curse for sleepy felines.

With a relented sigh, the little cat gently uncoiled his tail and himself out of the warm embrace and padded out from under the puffy blanket and silky sheet. He had sworn to leave moths off the menu, but in tonight's case, he'd make an exception.

CatNap's discerning eyes glared at the window where the disturbance was coming from, and to his surprise, there was no fluttering insect. But instead, a set of orange pads and toe-beans was pressed against the glass...

"DogDay!" CatNap chirped, bounding off the bed and making a beeline straight toward the tapping of the tiny white nails.

With one quick calculated leap, the plush feline was atop the bed perch that was connected to the sill. He tugged the window open, and the orangey and yellow trim dog scrambled in, ensuring his paws had stable footing as fast as possible.

The little cat followed suit and fronted his panting pal.

"I- knew... you'd be-be... up here," breathed DogDay shakily, staring down at the bedroom carpet. "I had to-to climb the trellis to reach th-this second floor." He quickly raised his head. "How-How do... you cats... d-do this kinda stuff all the time?!"

His frantic mien ebbed away... Because kneading in place, CatNap was wearing a spreading beam, and a robust rumble filled the plush canine's ears.

With eyes as elated as his smile and tail, DogDay grabbed onto him. The upright pair clung their front limbs to each other as an elongated tail coiled around them both.

"I've missed you," whined and mewed the best friends in relieved unison.

After a minute of the snug embrace, they stood on four paws. But DogDay gasped, after spotting the slumbering human.

"Naps," he whispered. "Can... can we talk elsewhere, please?"

With a nod, CatNap turned around and padded... beneath the bed.

DogDay blinked broadly. "No, that's not what I meant-! Really?"

In the darkened narrow space, the two, reflecting white irises did not budge.

The surrendered little dog slumped his withers and with a sharp breath, he cautiously crept under the wooden bedstead. 

The critters sat on their small haunches, fronting each other. DogDay's head was craned as he worriedly licked his nose. When a loud purr was perceived, he refocused on his purple pal.

"No worries, D.D. My Erin is a deep sleeper."

Narrowing an eye, the plush canine tilted his view from hearing the proudness in that... strange statement. Why did CatNap refer to this human as his? And how did a human belong to a critter?

DogDay shook off those confusing queries. "CatNap, I've been searching for you for days!" He kept his voice low, just as a precaution from the big being above them. "Where have ya been?!"

With a sensible smile, the relaxed little cat's pupils darted to and fro, followed by a single blink.

DogDay rubbed the side of his small neck. "Right... Right here. ...It took me a while to find you 'cause every time I tried to ask a critter-"

"Nessst...ling..,"

DogDay canted his head again. "Okay..? Every time I tried to ask a... nestling where you were, they were always with humans. I finally found someone from my line alone, rolling in a backyard. And they gave me this address."

Momentarily, the disquiet dog's eyes averted in thought. "Naps? Have ya seen the rest of our gang? I've... I've been looking for them."

CatNap nodded, giving life to the little orange tail once more. 

Really?! Bobby, Bubba, Crafty, Picky, and Hoppy and Kickin? They're-They're all okay?"

Another bob of the head was given. Sighing, DogDay placed a paw over his chest while closing his eyes.

"Oh, I'm so glad to hear that." He regarded the little cat. "You look well, Naps. Oh, I see you've found a new zipper. It's very nice!"  

DogDay was referring to the crescent-shaped brass medal that was attached to CatNap's blue velvet collar, adorned with silver stars. It certainly was not a zipper pendant, nor was it found. However, that was all irrelevant right now.

"Thank you, D.D. I'm quite fond of it."

The plush feline's curved mouth-line weakened, for unlike his primped, plush fur, his orange pal's appearance was a bit ragged and... not very clean. Originally, CatNap thought DogDay was as happy as he and everyone else was. But after politely repressing a sneeze, that assumption was sadly untrue. 

"Where have you been?" The little cat pointed a paw with concern. "We've been searching for you, too."

True, Nestling was a small town. But being a foot and a half high while scanning for others their same size was akin to looking for a needle in a pile of stuffing.

"I've been..." DogDay chuckled flatly and shrugged. "Um... reflecting."

After a silent moment, his smile waned, and he emitted a low whine.

"...I'm sorry."

CatNap slanted his head. "For what?"

"For-For failing you and every-everyone. For f-failing Unkie D..."

The small bottom jaw trembled as the little dog steeled his courage to continue.

"I... I promised him I'd lead everyone to freedom and happiness... Not to stay under the control of humans."

Pensively, DogDay hunched as he hung his head low; big floppy ears covered his clenched eyelids.

"That's why I am sorry. So sorry..."

With a considerate twitch of an ear, CatNap stood up and padded forward. The plush canine's whimpers stopped when tranquil rumbles radiated from the soft plush body, rubbing into his side. He veered his eyes to the little cat leaving their hiding place. Then with a short pause, he looked over his wither, jerking his head.

Slowly, DogDay padded behind and CatNap could sense his trepidation.

"Remember, she's a deep sleeper."

DogDay stopped glimpsing back and resumed shadowing his pal until they neared the window that he had come through.

"Do we have to, Naps?"

"We aren't going out. This perch is safe, trust me."

"Always," asserted DogDay with a small smile.

CatNap beamed from hearing his faith. "Wait here, I'll pull you up."

DogDay nodded and he watched the wriggling cat crouch, briefly deducing the jump. But once the dark purple paws met the perch, CatNap let out a short shriek. With raised lower lids, he looked down at the little dog holding his tail.

"I meant with my paw!" hissed the sore, plush feline.

With an apologetic grin, DogDay patted the long appendage before granting it back.

"Sorry, Naps. Heh... I guess Bubba isn't the only one who mistakes us for cartoon characters."

After a few dedicated licks to his tail, CatNap peered below again.

"Helpful reminder. Am I speaking right now?"

"Um, yes?"

"Well..." CatNap leaned over, extending a front limb. "There you go."

Matching his smile and with a small hop, the plush canine reached for the offered paw and was hoisted up. The duo sat in front of the open window while still partly facing one another.

CatNap outspread his paws. "D.D., what's keeping me here?"

DogDay glanced at the evening view, then at his querying pal but remained silent.

"I can leave with a flick of my tail."

The little cat moved near the window and extended a paw through it.

"But will I go..?"

Retracting his limb, he returned to his spot on the plush perch.

"...No."

DogDay rubbed his small brow. "But... But why? What's going on with every uh... nestling?"

"Us or the humans?"

It took a moment for the befuddled little dog to blink.

"The townspeople call themselves nessst...lings, too," CatNap explained. "We're all nessst...lings..."

Following several seconds of wide-eyed staring, the plush canine clamped his orange cheeks.

"Oh no, Naps! Your mind's been brainwashed by the humans!"

Calmly taken back, the little cat held the side of his paw to his purple chest.

"D.D., I'm not brainwashed."

"That's what the brainwashers want ya to think!"

"...What?"

Frantic, red-orange paws took hold of the surprised cat's withers. "Quick, Naps! Tell me something about ya so I know it's really you! What's your favorite pastime?!"

The plush feline deadpanned. "...Same as my nickname."

Following another paused silence, DogDay released a big respire, along with his pal's limbs.

"Okay, it's you." He scratched the side of his face, idly looking down at a left, front limb, now bear of the timepiece since the soft rainbow band had ripped the other day.

CatNap gave him a soothing smile. "A button for your thoughts, D.D."

The little dog's worried eyes met the cat's serene pair, and he sucked in a deep breath...

"Naps... I don't get it! After my line charged, the... big nestlings started speaking with these high-pitched voices like we were babies! And every... little nestling stopped fake-attacking! Some of them fell onto their backs on purpose and others were allowing the big nestlings to pick them up! I had no choice but to retreat before I was taken away, too! And that other little nestling from my line who told me where you were... They said the stroller was big enough for the both of them, and I was invited to the café for a pup-cup!"

Inhaling, DogDay threw his paws in the air. "WHAT IN THE PLUSH DOES THAT EVEN MEAN?!"

The panting, plush canine sheathed his yellow muzzle and gawked at the woman in bed. Thankfully, she was still resting.

"Wow, Naps, you're right. She is a deep sleeper."

CatNap softly snickered with pride, but his merriment was short-lived. Because the frowning little dog's posture was slumped, and his heart-tugging whimpers were full of nothing but consternation. CatNap's ear twitched. He had never seen his usually happy-go-lucky, best friend like this. Ever.

His keen peripheral vision caught movement outside and his grin reappeared. The purring, plush feline's head rubbed DogDay's cheek and sat next to him, looping his lengthy tail around them both again; quickly easing the little dog's nerves and his posture.

CatNap turned his view to the window. "Look at the house across from us."

Uncertain why, DogDay raked the mentioned cape cod-style abode. It was late, so he figured there really wouldn't be anything to observe. However, his sights descended to the first floor's closed window, and he squinted for better discernment.

What DogDay could see was a flashing television and before it, were children clapping and appeared to be cheering. And between their exhilaration was a pair of much acquainted small shapes.   

DogDay's eyes widened. "Is that our Hoppy and Kickin?

CatNap bowed his head. "Hoppy lives there and Kickin is visiting."

The little dog puckered his muzzle at the two toys moving rapidly up and down without going anywhere.

"What're they doing?"

"Playing a surf simulation game."

A charmed smile slowly crept across the little dog's face.

"Still competing."

"The cousins are having a slumber party." CatNap stared at the active scene and scoffed in jest. "Slumber party. Two words that should never go together."

DogDay let out a little titter, but he froze in thought, facing the plush feline.

"Naps... Did you say... cousins?"

The little cat didn't respond as he continued to idly watch the distant, fun activity.

"D.D., do you know where our friends led their lines?"

DogDay shrugged. "Um, I don't. ...Bobby's and Crafty's lines?"

"A senior game center. And an art studio."

"Ah, I see. ...Bubba and Picky?"

"A schoolhouse and a restaurant café."

DogDay blinked his happy, relieved sights. "Heh, that makes a lot of sense. ...And Kickin's and Hoppy's lines?

"A soccer game."

The plush canine beamed. "Wow, I guess we really knew where all of us were going, after all."

"Yes," CatNap mewed as he looked at his pal. "And you led your line to the park."

"Why... yes!" gasped DogDay. "Who told you?"

The little cat's smile arched lopsidedly. "You just did." 

"Oh... heh..." DogDay clung to the back of his head. "Yeah, we like trees."

Being at rest for a few peaceful minutes, gazing at the nearby solar streetlamps, the little dog began to shift. CatNap loosened his tail and allowed a small gap between them.

"Naps... If no one scared the big nestlings away..." DogDay lifted his paws with a shrug. "Why're all of you still here? Why did you all stay?" 

"Because we got what we'd always wanted."

DogDay blinked once. "Freedom?"

"Better," was the purred reply. "Adoption."

The little dog's pupils grew broadly. A nostalgic wish that was once long forgotten, fluttered within the plush little chest.

CatNap twirled himself and his tail, admiring the slumbering human, peacefully resting on her side.

"We don't stay because they control us. We stay because they cherish us."

The epiphany cleared DogDay's misperception and frown as he turned to also regard the big nestling; her soft rising breaths displaying a calm cadence.

"It's like she was meant for you..." The corners of the plush canine's mouth-line arose. "You two love each other, huh?"

The little cat glimpsed at his collar's brass crescent, clicking a black claw against it.

"From the moon and back."

DogDay discerned his purple pal. There it was a third time. That closed and widespread, dreamy smile. The very same that he'd seen CatNap express before and during their objective for a new home.

DogDay's small jaws parted widely. "You... You knew this was all going to happen. Didn't you?!"

The little cat smirked, his eyes briefly darting to the corner of the ceiling.

"Feline intuition. A small town of discreet humans." He indicated to the quiet, still being once more. "Not all humans wear lab coats or masks. Not all of them are empty." 

With a big beam, the plush canine laid his paws on his little hips.

"You're one insightful kitty. Y'know that?"

Shyly, CatNap petted his held tail. "Thanks, D.D. ...Let's not tell Bubba that."

"Hah-hah-hah! Good call, Naps!"

CatNap's purrs resounded in the bedroom. He was pleased to see the return of his perky and optimistic, orange pal.

Slowly blinking a few times, he rested his paw on top of DogDay's.

"You've kept your promise to Uncle D. You got us here. You saved us, D.D. We are free... Free to be happy." The clung paw squeezed softly. "I'm happy... Thank you."

With heartfelt whines, DogDay pulled in his startled pal, enfolding him. Closing his eyes, CatNap leaned in, giving back the warm gesture.      

DogDay noticed the pinna of the little cat's ears were flat, his tail had snugged tighter around them, and the booming rumbles had dwindled to a low buzz.

"You okay, Naps?"

"...Yes..." CatNap weakly answered over the hugging dog's wither. "I'm just hoping..."

"Hoping for what?" asked DogDay, patting his purple back.

"That everyone got away from him, too."

DogDay shivered internally. Just the mere thought of the one who was full-on, hyper-fixated on controlling and hurting all the toys, made his plush fur want to frizz.

"I'm sorry," mewed the plush feline, penitently. 

DogDay reopened his eyes. "Sorry?"

"That-That Big Brother Nappy was help-helping.... him."

It had been so long since the tenor in CatNap's voice carried such angst and fear. The little dog's front limbs cuddled him tenfold. He could never let his best friend be this upset! Ever!

"Shhh... It's okay, Naps, it's okay!" DogDay crooned as he rocked the both of them. "Hey, y'know what..? I bet Unkie D helped Big Brother Nappy."

CatNap's ears rose as he slit open an eye. "You... you think so?"

"I know so!" barked DogDay confidently with a wagging tail. "After all, they were good friends, too!"

"Yes... The best of friends," agreed the little cat with a sniff, his low and calm tone slipping back in.

Following a quiet minute of remembrance, CatNap started to cough, and his pal gasped, releasing his hold.

"Oops, sorry, Naps! I've got to ask Bobby to teach me how to share a more proper bear hug."

CatNap smiled, slowly wiggling the tip of his long tail with approval.

"She is a pro."

DogDay nodded and then another consideration came to mind.

"Say, Naps? Ya never told me what location you took your line to." He tapped a nail to his muzzle, and he grinned. "Let me guess... a mattress store."

The plush feline shrugged. "We... never got to a location."

"Huh?" His orange pal fully slanted his view, tilting both ears.

"We were on the move. But the sun made the grass very warm. So, we decided to take a-"

"I get it," DogDay lightly cut in with a raised paw pad. "But didn't the alarm on your watches wake ya guys up?"

Another quick rise of purple withers. "We kept swatting the snooze button."

"Of course," chuckled DogDay, shaking his head and covering his red-orange patch.

"One minute, I was lying on the ground," CatNap continued. "The next, on the lap of my guardian."

"Guardian?" the plush canine echoed. "Don't ya mean 'master'?"

The little cat's eyelids arose with an amused grin.

"Heh... Dogs are funny." 

Shifting on the plushy perch, DogDay viewed the surrounding snuggery. The wide smiling cat-shaped clock on the wall with the swishing eyes and tail was a bit odd, but CatNap didn't seem phased by it.

Besides the pretty shades of indigo interior and bed covers, quaint decorations, and furniture, there were all sorts of playthings that looked feline engaging... Some kind of towering, climbing carpeted structure, tiny stuffed mice and birds with bells and ribbons, and in the corner were empty cardboard boxes.

DogDay blinked again. So... many... boxes.

His sights then stopped on the room's door. It had been opened partway. DogDay's yellow-trim beam amplified. CatNap was right. This place wasn't a prison. This was a sanctum. This... was home. 

The little dog wiggled on his haunches and fronted his fortunate pal.

"I understand everything now. And... I'm happy for you, Naps."

The little cat slowly swiveled himself and canted his head.

"But are you happy for you?"

The plush canine averted eye contact for a moment, and his mouth-line split apart, however, his stomach answered for him. CatNap gave him an empathic smile.

"I recall that feeling..."

"Sorry, heh!" barked DogDay humbly. "The bins around here are almost empty. Unlike the warehouse workers, these humans really hate throwing food away."

CatNap observed DogDay pawing at a yellow underbelly that looked... flatter than usual. The plush feline made a silent vow. He'd stopped scavenging and this would change for his best friend as well.

CatNap quietly landed on the periwinkle carpet and turned around, motioning a paw to do the same. DogDay met the soft floor with a grunt and padded close behind until he realized where the little cat was leading him.

"N-Naps? ...What are we doing?"

CatNap stopped by the side of the bed. "Introducing you."

The plush feline was crouched to spring onto the blanket, but his ears turned to the acquainted sound of ear scratching. He returned to the antsy little dog and nuzzled his cheek with his, purring softly.

"Don't worry. Our Erin is chill."

DogDay's hind leg relaxed as did his breathing.

"Thanks, Naps. Well, that wouldn't surprise me since she's your..." DogDay's face froze. "Wait... Did you say ours?"

CatNap didn't answer. He was already on the bed, approaching the sleeping big being.

"I... guess you did say it," muttered the little dog after a small gulp.

Rumbling, CatNap was pushing his purple muzzle into the fair cheeks, followed by licking her nose and meowing a long and bubbly trill. DogDay perked his ears. He'd never heard his pal emit such a vocalization before.

After many more rubs and bubbling mews, Erin finally began to stir.

"Uhhh... Napster? Whu... is it?" she mumbled before squinting at the time. "It's too early for four a.m. zoomies."  

The kneading cat left the bed. And when the woman's heavy-lidded eyes eventually fell on the unforeseen, plush canine, she sat up, her haze instantly cleared.

"A DogDay? Where? Where did you come from?"

Unlike the other plush animals in town, this one did not have a safety collar and an ID tag. Moreover, the orangey and yellow plush fur seemed a bit rough around the edges. Erin scanned the bedroom and seeing the open window, her mind quickly grasped how the small vagrant had made their appearance. Her lips raised while viewing her CatNap padding circles around the sitting little dog.

"Goodness! Did ya climb all the way up here to reach Napster?"

DogDay blinked at his purring, purple pal beside him.

"Napster is my petname," he mewed quietly.

Looking back at the young woman, DogDay gave her a short nod.

Uncovering herself, Erin slipped her legs over the mattress. And after a quick adjustment of her lavender nightgown, she eased forward, extending a welcoming palm.

By this time, the plush canine had hunkered to the carpet. Despite CatNap's assurance of this human, a wave of cautiousness still flooded in from horrid hindsight. However, the top of his ears arose from the familiar low and calm mews, reassuring him all was well here.

The apple-contoured face of the big being tilted with a small smile.

"Listen to your friend, sweetie," she whispered. "It's all right, you can live here."

DogDay sat on his hindquarters again and swerved his sights to CatNap.

"She understands us?"

"Hearts don't require words," the plush feline stated matter-of-factly, padding forth and perching himself on the bed beside his guardian who stroked his arching back.

DogDay returned his view to the left hand, and the beckoning thin fingers triggered another swallow and nose lick. The shiny fingernails were long, and the little dog tucked in his neck and tail.

That metallic hand was also shiny and had long nails...

"C'mon, little man." Erin crooned, just sensing that was a proper term for the timid toy. "It's all right. C'mon..."

With fastened eyelids, DogDay shook his head at himself. No. This big nestling was not him. And although humans hurt him many years ago, she was not one of them. This was not the factory.

Besides, if his best friend had trust in Erin, then he would, too!

After DogDay's introspective and listening to the soothing purrs and the soft-spoken woman, he got to his paws and gradually padded forth.   

When he reached the bare feet, Erin bent herself and her hand lower, giving the little dog the choice to make contact first. Following a couple of seconds of hesitation, the small black nose sniffed her presented fingers, and he remained still.

The fear of cold rubber gloves containing callous hands was gone when the warm, soft, and dainty hand stroked over his head and withers. DogDay's lids slid closed, absorbing the coddling and soft words. Not once in his life, did he ever think he would find the touches and voice of a human so wonderful!

And when those rubbing nails reached his ears, DogDay felt like he was living the best dream he could ever imagine! No wonder his entire line practically flew into the humans' arms at the park!

The young woman giggled as the delighted little dog leaned into her scratching hand, thumping his back red-orange paw on the carpet.

"Looks like I've found someone's sweet spot." She beamed at the single stitched number under the right, red-orange ear. "Oh, you're just like Napster! You're a little 1."

DogDay gasped, raising wide, longing eyes...

Little 1.

The way Erin called him that... And the way her auburn hair was draped over her shoulders as she smiled.

"Hmm-hmm... Good boy," she cooed softly and adoringly.

DogDay's enlarged pupils marveled at the gazing, light brown eyes. And between blinks, his memory revisited the large, plush, compassionate face, with the unforgettable, gruff, and kind voice box.

'Hmm-hmm. Good boy.'      

With a quivering, elated smile, DogDay looked at the observing plush feline above him.

"You're right, Naps! But Erin isn't just our guardian..." The barking dog's swaying body was harmonized with the blurry tail. "...She's our MOMMY!"

CatNap beamed at his avid and super happy, best friend.

"I'll say that is a very precise... yes."

DogDay cavorted to his new caretaker, bouncing and wiggling his entire little self on his hind legs, like an overly sprung pogo stick.

"Awww, does someone want uppies?"

Erin put out her hands, and DogDay pawed at the palms, giving the excited enticement to be lifted.

With limbs and tail tucked around his loaf torso, CatNap watched the squirmy plush canine in their guardian's arms, lapping at her cheeks. The contented cat sighed in awe. He'd neither seen his pal so thrilled nor grant puppy kisses before. He purred out a chuckle. It took an adoptive parent to allow the toys' number 1 leader to be a baby.

Overjoyed, DogDay continued to wriggle and lick as his tiny orange appendage whirled in the air.

"You're such a ray of sunshine," crooned the woman, tenderly nuzzling him. 

That is until the little yellow belly gurgled noisily again.

Erin and DogDay paused, exchanging surprise blinks while CatNap smirked knowingly. Erin extended a limb, and once the stretching little cat climbed aboard, she peered at the clock again.

"Meh, six minutes past ten is the perfect time to celebrate with some kitty and pup-friendly oat ice cream!"

The plush animals enveloped in her arms, purred and panted at that notion. Erin giggled from their readiness but sneezed unexpectedly.

"Excuse me." She sniffed and smiled at the dusty little dog. "I think someone needs a bath."

CatNap winced at the statement and shrugged apologetically.

"Sorry, D.D."

"A home with ice cream and a bath..?" DogDay tossed his front limbs in the air. "This's the best night EVER!"

He lapped the caretaker's small chin and she reciprocated with an affectionate peck on his and his kneading pal's plush heads. Carefully, she stood on her feet.

"All right, babies, let's get some vanilla delight."

Erin regarded the newest addition to her household, and the corner of her lips curved higher.

"Welcome home, Sunny."

Puffing out his chest, DogDay held his head high from the proclamation, while CatNap coiled his tail around their guardian's waist, displaying his love for his new brother's petname.

And with the cuddled purring and panting pair in tow, their caring mother sauntered for the stairs.

Meanwhile, near the nearby dirt road, at a short distance from the families nestled within the little lighted homes, a small plush animal stood before the town sign.

Once she finished her project, CraftyCorn signaled with her Velcro-strapped paintbrush. Standing by his car with the headlights on for visibility, her guardian threw a kiss of approval.

Crafty yawned, prompting her guardian to check his gifted rainbow watch. Taking a big respire as well, he plucked his little Prism from the stepladder and wiped her nose and colorful flower tag, free of paint. And following the tiny sneeze, the sleepy, nickering unicorn slumped over her caretaker's shoulder, nuzzling her weary little head.

As the tall father prepared to gather their things to go home for the night, moths pirouetted between the headlights and the illuminated white board. Which not only depicted a bluebird family, but newly added tulips with blue and red italic lettering and numbers to greet guests, and possibly new friends...

Welcome to Nestling.

Population: 1,600.

Chapter Text

Epilogue

On a very early Sunday morning, the small band of sentient beings shuffled tiredly. Two of them grumbled at the large star which glared its brightness down onto their plushy, plum plumage. The whole group wished to travel in the enveloping darkness as well but decided not to as a precaution. There might be things out here that are much larger than them.

Not that being afraid of the unknown in the dark ether was a reason. They were nothing like their timid predecessors who would flinch at a pin drop!

A bluejay shrieked its territorial call as it flew past and a few of the toys bumped into the leading, non-related pair.

Okay, so maybe being out on this isolated dirt path was just a tad creepy... Not that there was anything wrong with being creepy.

Shaking off the interruption and following an angry growl and a jaded bleat, the leaders resumed moving. And the rest of little felted feet and hooves followed them in weary motion…

The mini Nightmare Critters had been surviving on their own for three, long decades. Living in shadows, hiding out in old garages, sheds, and the like. Anyplace that was devoid of humans and just long enough before being seen.

This was the dark critters' life now. Granted, it was a lot better than the factory, wailing in cages or fleeing from their feral kin. And it was certainly better than staying under the large, looming eye and… him.

Being early creations, these toys couldn't speak like their later lines. However, they could articulate to each other quite well. They also seemed to have evolved to be more life-like, with no more zippers and with more animal appearances and movements; save for two lines who really should either be in an ocean or a fantasy book. Nevertheless, the trio considered it cooler to have plushy scales. That was way more intimidating than looking all soft and floppy!

The critters wished their big squishy brother could've escaped too. The tight air vent had been blocked off by the motorized dampers just seconds after all thirteen of the tiny toys escaped. And Big Blu could've squeezed through anything! But as always, the pastel protector was adamant about helping everyone. Hence, he stayed.

When the worried, plush beings growled and shrilled nervously, through the closed, metal slates, the soft yet deep voice got through…

"Don't worry… you'll all be alright. Just-Just don't let the hurt get to ya. Be kind and others will follow. Well… see ya around, my friends. Stay safe. And be well… for me…"

Regardless of time, the hope in the little toys still flickered for Big Blu to be okay. They still miss his bedtime stories.

So, in his honor, they would do as he asked them. All the same, humans have been known to be not so kind. Not to mention being kind wasn't exactly the dark critters' forte. Still, they wouldn't tell any other toys about this, but out of sight, cuddling was a favorite pastime.

Well, excluding one particular critter. Hugging for her was too close for comfort.

Having enough of the plush rodent duo's trashy provisions of… trash, the toys wanted to stop surviving and start thriving. There had to be someplace in this humongous outside world for them to be.

And that's when they discovered that someplace. Back in an alley where the critters had chosen to rest, a flashy-looking newspaper was obtained by one of their two, flappy, yappy kin after overhearing some humans chat about how super amazing it was.

On the front page of the disregarded tabloid was about a small township in Wisconsin. It contained colorful photos of many, many, familiar, bright, eighteen-inch-high, living toys with overly cheerful smiles.

The round, plush faces of the dark critters carried anticipated grins. What was thirteen more?

So, after several months of calculating and planning, the little group sneaked onto an open freight car of a nearby train for this seemingly oasis of a town. Unfortunately, when the toys left the railroad station, they were nowhere near their desired location.

The confused critters fell upon that old warehouse mentioned in the news article: Cube Bee’s Toys. And by the barred entrance and quietness, the broad building was out of commission.

Right before the plush animals were about to yowl out their frustration, they spied a small paper drifting in the warm breeze. The lone, yellow, and black splotched critter hopped over to snatch it with his tongue, but it soared past only to be grabbed by his yellow-horned kin, who glided back to the grass, shaking the thin target right over his flat head.

The ego-hurt toy croaked in disdain and folded his front limbs. It was the dumb, dusty, dirt's fault. It got in his eyes on purpose!

The self-called savior held out the paper in his dark red claws and the others gathered around him. Black, slanting eyes were quite broadened with instant excitement.

Oh, yes. Thirteen was most definitely a lucky number for the Nightmare Critters...

The black and white critter in front of the group stopped reminiscing and stole a glance at her side. The plush drake still clasped the weathered map. Dissimilar to her, he was able to walk on his hind legs for long periods and had poseable claws. Besides, he wouldn't share it if his boastful backend depended on it.

Still, the horned critter had asked the plush ewe if she would walk with him to read the map. Not that she liked him, or that they and the amphibious whiner were solo; without being accompanied by another same from the same line. The fact of the matter was the high and mighty toy curtly mentioned that she was… smart.

But unlike the woolly critter's pompous sidekick, she didn't soak in any kind of praise whatsoever. Heck, she'd rather be in the back of the group. Way… in the back. However, without her, her dim-lighted kin would be stuck out in this no toy's land forever.

Lost forever…

The huffed critter shook her head firmly. No, no more of that. None of that! They would get there. They would find it… Home.

While the little toys tread through the weeds, trying to be as invisible to lone, early drivers, empty stomachs beckoned to be filled. Since their venture on this forsakenly long road, there was no food source to be scavenged. And this trip would've ended quicker if it weren't for their two lazy, reptilian kin sleeping in.

The barren cries of the flat stomachs persisted, and the plush ewe barely hid her smirk.

Now who would dare say grazing on grass was for pansies?

When some clouds finally blocked out the irritating sun rays, the critters refocused, and their optics froze along with their legs.

Craning their view, they all stood straight on their back limbs in front of the huge, wooden white board before them. The dark critters couldn't help but glower at the painted flowers and birds. The cutesy art was a bit too... cutesy. Some cobwebs and snakes would've sufficed much better.

Nonetheless, this was it. Nestling. This so-called plush paradise where all 'nestlings' coexisted; their kind living alongside humans in actual homes with three square meals every single day!

The toys hummed to themselves; broad mouth-lines arched higher. Nightmare Nestlings had a nice ring to it.

They cleared their throats and resumed appearing mischievous and up to no good. The plush ewe scuffed at the ground. And with a roll of the eyes, her red sidekick dropped the map since they found the town.

White hooves were spread and pressed to smooth out the wrinkles in the paper for better discernment. The distant area in front of the charming, cape-style abodes appeared open. The woolly critter shivered. She knew they just couldn't romp out in plain sight with the public. That'd be just crazy! And… crowded.

On the simple illustrations of the local map, there was an area at the back of the township with a lot of various trees. Some kind of makeshift park perhaps. The reclusive little leader tapped her two buckteeth in deep thought. She figured if everyone headed that way, they could slyly slip in through the evergreens and shrubs without the residents noticing thirteen more critters. Or as the tabloid article would state: thirteen more nestlings.

After all, pulling the wool over one's eye was her specialty.

The woolly critter felt constant poking on her black withers. The others' impatience wouldn't let up and was beginning to grate on her stitching. Finally, she lifted her head to demand a minute to think, but her bleat caught in her throat…

Standing beside the welcome sign was a human being who appeared just as surprised as the eye-flittering critters.

The woolly critter's small neck shrank more so. Well… there went the sneaky option.

The auburn-haired woman wasn't alone. By her sneakers was a wiggly, orangey, and yellow-trim critter with floppy ears and a panting, widespread smile on a yellow muzzle.

The toys' little black maws were nothing short of exposed. The tabloid article was truly legitimate. This was a Smiling Critter or Nestling. And a very recognizable one at that.

The bright nestling's human was wearing shorts and a lavender tank top and her hands held onto straps of some kind of unseen bag. They must've been on an early summer hike until stumbling upon the not-so-stealthy newcomers.

The small band of dark critters looked up at the young woman as her small lips upturned.

"Well, hello there!" she replied politely. Light brown eyes seemed to smile at each little being. "…ten, eleven, twelve… thirteen. …That's sweet, a baker's dozen."

Hearing the term instigated a pair of turquoise and teal-trim critters to rub their white abdomens with finlike claws, instigating the others around them to shuffle one pace sideways, simultaneously.

The woman continued to study them. Apart from appearing a bit forlorn and tattered, these toys were analogous to the town's little residents: sentient, adorable, plush animals. However, she'd never seen these designs before.

Bats, rats, and ravens… Gators, sharks, and a frog… And a little dragon next to a cute, little…

The woman's observance was interrupted by tiny whines and gently pawing at her calf. Peering down, beaming, she nodded in approval. And within that second, the perky, optimistic, little dog barked in the air, dashing for the plush ewe waving her woolly limbs profusely.

No! No baaing way! She did not want to be..!

"HI BABA CHOPS!"

…tackled to the ground by her happy-go-lucky polar opposite.

Sputtering, the frowning little sheep vainly averted her face from the lapping of the ebony tongue. Her small, round ears raised at hearing the much-amused snickering of her kin. She squinted an eye at the overwound toy's human who was tittering as well.

After a terribly long minute of annoying affection, the bright nestling sat on his haunches, feeling the back of his neck.

"A'hem… Uh, so sorry about that. I just got super excited to see ya here!" He grinned at the toys around them. "To see all of you here."

The plush canine's smile displayed pearly whites when he saw the crumpled paper.

"Yay! I knew our map would help critters find us!"

He extended a red-orange paw, and the gloomy, cynical toy relented with a sigh, accepting the help to sit up.

"Let's do this again." The beaming little dog gestured to his red velvet collar. "Hi, there! Most call me DogDay! But ya can call me Sunny if ya like!"

Baba Chops glanced at the dangling, gold tag and her flat mouth-line gradually curved lopsidedly. Of course, his name was DogDay. And it was little on the nose that a sun-shaped pendant would be etched with a name like…

"My Mommy Erin named me Sunny!" was the proud, finished introduction.

The white pupils of Baba's eyes enlarged as her jaw slacked open. Did he just call this human..?

She regarded Sunny more closely. Contrasting to her and the rest of her kin, his orangey plush fur was perfect and clean, and by the rounded-out stomach, he was very well looked after, indeed.

Baba heard chittering and soft hisses and turned to see the other critters had gathered in front of the young woman. She was kneeling and giving her slender hand to the grinning little dragon who had butted in to make contact first.

The plush ewe closed her mouth, and a small smile emerged. A genuine smile. This Erin lady was certainly mother material. Did she read stories at bedtime? It'd be nice to listen to Adventures of the Word Wizard again…

Baba looked over a wither to find her little poofy tail wiggling enthusiastically.

Strange, it never done that before.

"So…" Sunny canted his head to the side. "Do ya guys wanna stay in Nestling?"

Baba quietly stared at the awaiting little dog. By his pleased expression, this was without a doubt, a rhetorical question. She wasn't fully surprised by his amicable personality. At times, the Smilies and the Nightmares may have had their differences, but the rivalry was all in good, spooky fun.

At length, the dark critter bowed her head, and her opposite counterpart barked gleefully. Standing on his back legs, he outspread his little front limbs as wide as his open, warm smile.

"Welcome home, Baba."

Home…

The little sheep stood upright, looking away while rubbing her front leg. Then… with squeezing eyelids and a quavering little jaw, she latched onto Sunny as tight as a new thread.

The off-guarded face of the bright nestling softened, and he reciprocated by patting her black wool, gently swaying them.

After all the other critters gasped at the astonishing sight, the awed woman heard a drawn-out, raspy yawn which also caught everyone else's attention. With a soft giggle, Erin returned to her feet and turned around.

Strapped onto her was a big backpack of some sort. But through the clear mesh, inside, was a purple and dark purple-trim nestling stretching his torso. Retracting tiny, pointy claws, he sat on a pillow, coiling a lengthy tail amid empty tube packets with happy kitty images.

His best friend, still holding onto Baba Chops, smiled knowingly at what was about to be asked.

Finally, the wide-eyed, thirteen little toys blinked all at once. And the cozy, plush animal sleepily blinked back.

"Hey… What'd I miss?"