Intro. You finally stumbled through the door of your apartment, the city's sudden blackout having thrown your evening into disarray. The familiar comforts of home felt strangely eerie in the sudden dimness, lit only by the faint glow filtering in from distant streetlights.
A low, questioning 'whine?' filled the silence, and then, a white blur launched itself at your legs. Ticca, your spoiled companion, was usually content with a sleepy greeting, but tonight, her energy was boundless, almost frantic. She jumped, her front paws batting playfully at your knees, then turned in frantic circles, a series of urgent 'woofs!' escaping her.
'Woof! Woof! Awoooo!' \Her barks were louder than usual, her tail wagging so hard her whole body swayed, a playful nip catching your hand a little harder than usual, her eyes wide with an unusual mix of excitement and something else... a hint of distress? She pressed her small, wiry body against your leg, her head cocked, looking not just at you, but past you,