songerein | { once upon a fairytale }

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{ once upon a fairytale }

ONCE UPON A FAIRYTALE

One night, a sweet melody fills the air around Reverein, causing everyone to fall into a deep, peaceful sleep, as if trying to soothe all from the stress of the past few months. However, there are those who are completely lulled by the beautiful music, silently slipping out of bed or off the floor or wherever they were sleeping and sleepwalk out of town to disappear into the woods. It will only be in the morning when everyone left will notice them gone.

Fortunately it's not too difficult to follow the trail. The music continues to play and there are music notes floating in the air to guide searchers deep into the Wildlands. When they approach a golden bridge crossing over a large, rainbow river, they are stopped by some local fae who had witnessed the strange changes. They will tell of how the forest has shifted and changed, with new structures and creatures suddenly inside. There is a strong magic over it, and they are wary of entering as those who have gone to investigate have yet to return. There are witnesses who have seen people inside, but they are acting…strange. And dressed strangely, too, with some looking as if they are in costumes. It's not Halloween, so what's going on?

Those brave enough to cross the bridge will find themselves suddenly changed into different clothes or costumes to match a fairytale character. Those who have had previous experiences in various story based dreamscapes may be somewhat familiar to this. It's completely random (ie, player choice) and a piece of sheet music will appear in front with the following words:

Deep within the forest your friends are stuck in play
Dreaming of a different life to live from day to day
Fear not, brave hero, for their lives are in no threat
But until the music ends will this spell continue yet

Find them in their role and play along
Be it through facing evil villains or singing a song
Perhaps you can remind of who they really are
Find pieces of their memories locked in a jar

Good luck to you, dear hero!
You've reached the final verse
Break this spell before the next new moon
Or this spell will be a cUrSe 😈

More details on everything can be found here. As a reminder, events double as our TDMs and information can be found here. Any outside characters participating in the log are canonly logged as appearing in Songerein in February and will remain in Songerein from the IC date of February 14th (however, the event itself ICly takes place February 25th through March 2nd). TDM only characters can only thread within this log. Anyone who apps in and is accepted will have their character count February as their first time in the game without any disruption, so all content will carry over. Those who do not apply will disappear which should not seem too unusual, however players in game can choose to retcon and pretend a character was never there to begin with if it would be easier; or even think their presence was just a dream.

IMPORTANT! All outside characters MUST have "TDM" in their subject line, even if you might not app. This will help people differentiate those who are already in the game and those who are not.

TDM threads are required for samples. Refer to the Game Info for general information and feel free to toss any questions here. Reserves will open February 23rd and Applications will open on March 1st. Our application cycles are bi-monthly so the next cycle after won't be until May.

TDM Toplevel Link Directory (click to view)

Animorphs - Tobias
Final Fantasy VII - Tseng
Final Fantasy XIV - G'raha Tia
Final Fantasy XVI - Clive Rosfield
Granblue Fantasy Re:Link: Rackam
Hazbin Hotel - Husk
Hazbin Hotel - Lucifer Morningstar

We will request any thread submissions for certain prompts during AC and TDM threads will count. For more information, refer to the Game Notes.

"ENCHANTED" FOREST

All characters in the Enchanted Forest will be dressed in some kind of storybook, fairytale role, and they can be as generic or as specific as players want them to be. Heroes, villains, or an odd mix between are allowed.

The following prompts are more like "setting pieces" that players can utilize either for their sleepwalking character or for a general prompt for those helping out to get through. This is a non-exhaustive list and players are encouraged to be creative and add whatever they need. Sleepwalkers can create their own toplevels featuring their own story setup and/or tag into others. Players are also free to use NPCs who are also caught in the curse to help instead.

Finally, all original abilities are gone while in the Forest, including dreamotion. Instead, they will be replaced with abilities and skills based on the role the character is playing. This does mean you can cheat and choose a role that has abilities similar to the character's original set, but if you're willing to try and be completely creative, you can do so. You can be as open or as restrictive as you want, whatever works best for you.

(Note: The Love is in the Air bubbles are also in effect throughout this event. Because of the IC dates, the Dream Board can also be used as prompts as long as they are set before the event occurs.)

A. SLEEPWALKERS

Those affected by the spell will be called "sleepwalkers" and will be found at various parts of the Enchanted Forest that fits their fairytale character's role. They will be dressed as the character, be a protagonist or a villain, and a lot of creative liberties and freedom are allowed. Their role may also be a little strange and mixed up. Perhaps Red Riding Hood is part wolf, or Thumbelina is a fierce warrior princess ready to take down all the "giants."

The "script" and story may also be twisted up, so it will be up to those trying to help them to try and play along to get a hint on how to save them by finding their memories locked in jars, which are hidden somewhere within their vicinity. Once found, it can only be opened by the sleepwalker, and it will help "wake" them up back to their original self. However, this is a temporary measure until the whole spell is broken.

(Note: To help players find your scenario, please comment to this Sleepwalker Scenario Directory thread here.)

B. FIND THE FLUTE

While some are trying to help those affected, others are focused more on the curse and breaking it. There are bubble-like music notes that appear here and there, and popping them will reveal a piece of sheet music that will have a bar or two of lyrics that will give a hint to where the flute may be hiding. It's different for everyone, and sometimes it can be straightforward and sometimes it's not. However, should anyone sing the piece, music notes will appear and form a trail to lead them right to the flute (the notes will visibly reflect how good or poorly it's sung).

There are multiple instances of the flute and it can be found anywhere within the Forest. Sometimes it's easy to see, others will be hidden or guarded by a creature. It could even be in the hands of a sleepwalker. (Note: as mentioned in the Dream Notes, at least 10 different flute instances must be destroyed for the spell to be broken. If we do not receive enough submissions, the curse will continue with a Part Two in March.)

C. DARK WOODS

There are portions of the forest that are visibly darker. Not only is it denser with more trees, but gray clouds hang over it, further blocking sunlight from it. It's so dark in some places it almost feels like night and lanterns or other sources of light will be needed. Beware of the creatures that lurk. Some are friendly, others like to appear with random rhymes and riddles, and then there are the dangerous ones that are feeling a bit hungry. Be careful of the fruit that hang from some trees, as they can either be poisonous or just have a strange effect on those who eat it.

Deep, deep in the dark woods there is a mysterious fog that will quickly disorient anyone who are caught in it. This is known as the haunted section of the woods, so beware of spirits and ghosts that might wander through.

D. BRIDGES

There is a strange amount of bridges scattered around the Forest, and some of them aren't even crossing over any rivers—just empty ditches or even large chasms. The types will also vary, from fancy bricks to wooden bridges suspended by something that isn't very discernable (the ropes disappear into the sky…??). However, they all have one thing in common: trolls. Some are friendly and will let people pass after answering a few questions. Others will require a bribe. And some will force fights and other annoying challenges. Even then, the bridges themselves may be a bit wobbly, especially those wooden ones, or things like goblins may still pop out to try and steal from them. But perhaps some goats will help?

E. COTTAGES

And all other manner of houses, some of which may be made out of food, straw, sticks, or brick instead of wood. Some of these may be empty, others may already have an occupant. There could be people, could be animals; friendly or hostile. Just be careful of the beds—they can be quite comfortable and some may even be drawn to sleep in them…and need a little smooch to awaken. Those tempted by the food may find it delicious, but they may turn into a grumpy bear always complaining about the temperatures of the food and never satisfied. Baking a few goodies may also help those affected nearby.

Watch out for wolves and young, blond girls. They seem to like breaking into these places.

F. SWAMPS

Deeper within the Forest are pockets of swampland that house all manner of dangerous creatures, such as the will-o-wisps that like to lead wanderers astray, and those looking for a trusty steed? Avoid the horses here—they are kelpies that will waste no time in taking them into the murky waters. As it is a favorite spot for witch ingredients, it is more likely for someone to encounter one and suffer some kind of strange curse here, especially those involving animal transformations with frogs as a favorite. Don't forget the ogres—they don't like to be disturbed.

G. CASTLES

There are at least one or two castles deep within the Forest, though they are a lot smaller than their real counterparts. Some are just a single tower that needs to be climbed up to help whoever is trapped up there. While there could be fair damsels that need rescuing, there are also treasures that could be found and taken instead. Or perhaps one wants to conquer the castle instead and be its king or queen. However, like everything else here, there are curses and enchantments everywhere. The cutlery may not be so keen on intruders, and one may feel the need to sing and dance a musical number more often than not.

But of course these have their own guardians, with the dragons being a favored choice. Wizards and other sorcerers are also common tenants, and they will gladly use their magic to expel anyone who tries to get in.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ A beast-master might come in handy for this tiny Sleepwalker. As Azula wanders into the woods, she'll hear the sound of a wedding march... only played in a very aggressive manner.

The sights only get stranger - Black Raisin Cookie, an oddity herself already, is in a wedding gown and running away from a mob of toads, moles, and bugs! She's Thumbelina, and everyone's after her hand! ]

No, please! I can't marry any of you! I simply want to go home!

[Azula has only just entered the forest- and begun to adjust to the sudden costume change, the red hood and ridiculous dress- when she hears the yelling.

She's a little confused by where the noise is coming from, but eventually she spots a tiny... something in a lacy white dress.

Ugh. Well, she may as well intervene. She drops her basket and gestures with her hand to call a wall of flame right behind the little running figure to cut off her pursuers... and nothing happens.

...what-

She tries again. Nothing. She can't firebend. Why does this always happen to her?]

Well, come on, already, get over here.

[It's delivered in the most agitated, infuriated fashion, but hey, any port in a storm. Or a swarm of critters trying to marry you.]

[ Indeed, BRC is hardly in any state to complain about her rescue! There's a beat of hesitation, but she does begin running towards Azula. ]

P-Please help me! I just want to go home!

[ And of course, all the suitors follow her!
"She's my bride!"
"She's my wife!"
"She's my fiancé!" ]

[Ugh. Ridiculous nonsense. She unceremoniously reaches down and scoops Black Raisin Cookie off the ground- none too gently, and with no particular concern for her dignity- and follows it up by kicking the nearest frog-suitor, who goes flying off into the trees with a dismayed ribbit of anguish.]

Anybody else feel like getting married right now?

[ The remaining suitors skid to a stop - and wind up accidentally dogpiling on top of each other. Fwumpfwumpfwumpfwump -

BRC made a little 'eep' sound when she was yoinked, and now has to wonder if this really is her hero... ]

I... don't think they'll be a problem now?

[She pauses and surveys her handiwork for a moment, with no small degree of satisfaction. Then she turns and continues walking.]

I don't have time to remove you from the forest.

[Nor did she especially care enough to do so.]

I can, however, take you a reasonably safe distance before I put you down.

But... but what if they just try to capture me again? Please, I just want to go home to my mother! Our home can't be too far away!

[ Pweeeeease? ]

[Their home? Her mother-

Oh, spirits.]

Your home is almost certainly not inside the forest, and your mother isn't here. You've been brainwashed, you fool.

[Despite the hostile tone, she is at the very least still carrying the poor little cookie to safety.]

W-what are you talking about? Of course she is! And she must be so worried and sad that I'm gone! I'm all she has!

[ Is it Azula's imagination, or is there the sound of crows in the distance?

"Caw, caw, caw...!" ]

[Ugh. This wasn't working, clearly. And-

And what was that noise? Birds? Were they out to 'marry' this bizarre creature too?

That would be... irritating. Irritating enough that she very nearly reconsiders. She pauses for several long moments, flatly evaluating the cookie-person on her shoulder, but finally-]

...Fine. Where is your 'home,' then? Do you even remember the way?

I'm sorry, but the frogs captured me in a walnut shell when they kidnapped me... All I know is that a flowing river is near my beloved home.

[ The birds that head toward Azula don't want to marry the Cookie, but they do love her very much! As they come into view, Azula will see... they are also very itty bitty. Even smaller than the Cookie. Five little loyal Raisin Crows! ]

[... Ohhhhhhhkay, those sure are some absurdly small birds. She thinks. They look odd. Odd, but- too small to be an immediate threat, she hopes, barring some sort of unseen abilities.

Speaking of odd, though...]

...you're small, but you're not smaller than a walnut shell. Are you sure you don't remember more?

[ The crows keep heading over, five in total - with the last one carrying a strange, glowing jar? ]

Well... there's also a quaint little farm near my home. Sometimes mother would let me come meet the cows and chickens, they were so lovely!

[... A farm near a river. She's trying to remember if she's seen such a thing in this place, but so far she doesn't remember one. Very little of the land here seems suitably clear and arable for farmland.]

...Are these birds enemies of yours?

Don't be silly, I don't have any enemies!

[ However, she does give pause, and tilts her head. ]

There's... something familiar about them, though. I can't put my finger on it.

[ which is extra weird, because she doesn't have fingers. ]

[It's fine, her limbs are finger-sized, that counts.]

Call me crazy, but if somebody tried to wed me against my will, I would consider them an enemy. These creatures may have been trying to do the same.

[Were the birds her allies? Not affected by the forest, so they weren't innate abilities of hers. Independent entities, perhaps?

Well, not her problem.]

I'm going to speed up. Try not to be annoying about it, and keep an eye out for landmarks.

[That's all the warning she gives before suddenly leaping nimbly into the trees and quickly springing from branch to branch. It is, in fact, a lot faster. Also a lot harder to hang on.]

Eek! Oh my! S-So scary...!

[ She hangs on for dear life, continuing to make itty bitty noises of distress!

But the crows, all five, are flying after them! They caw after Azula and the Cookie, sounding very distressed and upset! ]

We don't have time for you to be scared, we're trying to find your home.

[Casting a look back at the tiny, tiny crows, she adds-]

And whatever those things are, they're clearly very determined.

Maybe, but... I don't think they want to marry me! I think they're trying to give you something!

[ Caw, caw! We mean no harm! Caw, caw! ]

[...Give her-

Oh, whatever. She has no idea how any of these stupid stories are meant to go, after all, so she may as well hear this out.

She comes to a stop in the trees and wheels around to glare at the crows.]

Fine. Listen. Absurdly tiny birds. Whatever you want to do, just do it and get it over with.

[ S-scary...! The crows are nervous, but slowly approach Azula, and gently place the jar in her hand, even giving it a little nudge. ]

... What is it? I've never seen anything like it before.

[She stares down at the tiny jar in her hand.]

I assumed you would know. It's clearly yours.

[Unless there were two tiny people running around.]

But I've never seen that jar before in my life! ... Although if it's something to eat, that would be nice. All that running really worked up an appetite...

[ So, she moves to wiggle the jar open -

And something pours out! Gold light envelops her, and she gives out a cry, flailing and trying to stand up straight. She covers her eyes with one arm, breathing hard... ]

Where is... Gingerbrave Cookie... I'm coming, Gingerbrave Cookie! H-hang on, I'm...

[ Her eyes swim and she begins to lower her arm. ]

... Wait... isn't this... Reverein...?

[The jar- ended the effect.

The jar ended the effect.

So that was the trick.]

Yes, you're in Reverein. You were under the influence of dream magic.

... What...

... What am I wearing?! What was I doing?! WHY WAS EVERYONE TRYING TO MARRY ME?!

[ Behold, the real BRC! She looks absolutely mortified, holding her face in her hand. The crows caw in relief, and surround their mistress - although one seems to lightly boop Azula's nose as a thank you. ]

{ once upon a fairytale }

I

OH HEAVENS.

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