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

[Anabella shrieks as the magic takes its hold on her. Too afraid to reach up and grasp at the fire, she stands still, paralyzed with fear.]

[A cry from above resounds from the Phoenix at the same time, and as Naoya continues to speak, it dives low. The moment he finishes, it lands on his outstretched arm, gripping it tight but not enough to tear through to his skin with sharp talons.]

Stop!

[It cranes its neck so its sapphire eyes can catch Naoya's.]

Please. It is enough. She is of no danger to us anymore.

She sure seems dangerous, but fine.

[There’s pain, but that’s fine. He’d love to watch her die, but this isn’t his place to play with. He dismisses the fire and turns to the bird.]

So what now?

Thank you.

[The winds die down as Anabella is freed, and her sobs fill in the muted void where they once roared.]

[The Phoenix, after turning its head once to look back at the ruined Duchess, carefully makes its way up Naoya's arm so it can perch on his shoulder.]

It is likely the prince we seek is in the cottage. Pray return me to him so that he may wake.

[He pats the bird with his unbloodied arm and heads towards the cabin door. Is that all? This could have been done so much more easily if you'd told him that, Phoenix.]

Two halves of a whole, is it? Interesting.

[Look, it wasn't sure about that, itself, okay?]

Yes. The child and I are one.

He is the Crown Prince of Rosaria, Joshua Rosfield, the Dominant of the Phoenix, the Eikon of Fire.

I chose him to command my power.

[On the other side of the door, Naoya will be able to catch some noise from inside. As if someone is scrambling.]

[He's honestly more comfortable talking to weirdly solid concepts of reality than people. Demons are straightforward and (usually) predictable. He's aware this isn't the same, but...]

[He laughs quietly and tilts his head.]

You chose well. For someone with a volatile element, he's surprisingly... steady. So come, let us return you to him.

[He knocks on the door before trying the handle.]

I will pass along your compliments to him.

[The Phoenix keeps steady on Naoya's shoulder, quiet as he knocks.]

[From inside comes a new voice, ostensibly belonging to a child.]

"You cannot enter! I won't let you harm His Grace!"

[He just sighs - really? While he's - should he even mention that he's with the Phoenix? Possibly not, so...]

Won't you let me enter? I'm wounded and I would like to look for some kind of fabric to staunch my wound.

[He might as well use this injury while he's got it.]

"No! Nobody can enter! I have to protect him until he wakes up!"

[The Phoenix trills quietly.]

Let her see me. Mayhap she will listen to you, then.

I know you do, but I have a friend here for him. A certain fiery bird would like to speak with him.

[It's not a very good riddle, but he wants her to be able to figure it out.]

[There's a pause. Then, the handle jiggles before the door opens just enough for a pair of large chocolate brown eyes to peek through the crack--from about waist height.]

"Let me see the Firebird."

[Obediently, the Phoenix cranes its neck to peek out from behind Naoya's head with another, louder trill. The child's gaze darts up and there's an audible gasp.]

[The door slams shut.]

[Then, the knob jiggles again, accompanied by the distinct clunks of a series of opening locks. Soon after, the door slowly opens, revealing a humble cottage and a little girl with short dark hair, donned in brown and green leathers.]

[She also has a short sword at the ready, but that's a minor detail.]

"I am watching your every move, Stranger."

[He rolls his eyes when the door shuts, but the sound makes him slightly less sore. He heads inside and looks around - oh child, you do not intimidate him at all.]

Of course you are. Now, where is Joshua? I think it's time for him to wake up, isn't it?

[He keeps his voice soft - presumably the prince is sleeping, after all.]

[The girl's eyes narrow. Don't underestimate her, Naoya!]

"His Grace [emphasis on the title; show proper respect, Naoya] is sleeping in the bed to the back."

[Sure enough, there is a small bed with a young boy resting in it. The Phoenix shifts from one foot to another in anticipation.]

Bring me to him.

Edited 2024-02-23 18:55 (UTC)

Of course.

[To both of them, but it's really hard not to laugh at the girl's insistence on the title that he is absolutely not going to use.]

Let's see here...

[He steps closer to the boy before holding out his arm so that the Phoenix can walk down it towards the sleeping Joshua. And while he's never seen the boy so young, it's...]

[Well, it's almost sweet.]

Here. Wake up, both of you. We have business to attend to.

Thank you, my friend.

[The Phoenix spares a long, affectionate look at the little girl. In return, her cheeks, despite her best attempts at remaining professional, blossom pink with a heavy blush.]

And thank you, Jote, my companion.

[The girl nods, then returns to the task at hand, caught between suspicious glares at Naoya and keen interest in watching what the Phoenix will do. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity.]

[Instead of hopping down with force, the fiery bird is gentle in its movements. With wings spread wide, it centers itself on the young boy's chest, spreads its wings wide, and presses its forehead against Joshua's.]

[A flash of fire and aether erupts from its feathers, engulfing both the bird and the boy and flooding the small room with warm, gentle light. Joshua's torso rises from the bed, although he remains seated as the Phoenix disappears into him.]

[A beat.]

[Then his eyes flutter open.]

Edited 2024-02-23 19:30 (UTC)

[Naoya steps back and watches, pressing his sleeve against his wound. (He'll be fine, he'll just have to treat it later.) He lets out a relieved breath as Joshua rises, letting his shoulders slump a little bit.]

Good morning, Joshua.

[They're not really in Rosaria, he has no need to use the title.]

Are you feeling better now?

[Jote glares up at Naoya, ready to give him a piece of her mind, but Joshua, catching the look, gives her a smile.]

It's okay! I don't mind.

[The girl huffs, but bows. She won't make a fuss if he won't.]

[Still smiling, Joshua then greets Naoya properly.]

Good morning. I'm feeling much better, thank you.

[He looks at that nasty looking wound.]

But you're hurt... may I take a look?

Good.

[He raises a hand to ruffle Joshua's hair gently, but will pull it away if he's not comfortable. Jote's opinion on the matter, whichever it is, is ignored.]

I'll live, but I won't say no to healing.

[The sleeve is pulled up, and... well there's blood streaks. He's not going to complain about it, even if it does hurt.]

[Joshua doesn't seem to mind, if the soft giggle is anything to go by. His companion seems absolutely incensed at the display, but she doesn't say anything.]

[She does, however, have something to say about the request.]

"Your Grace, you shouldn't..."

[In return, Joshua shakes his head.]

There's no point in having a power if I don't use it. I'll be okay. I slept for a long time.

[He places his tiny hands on Naoya's arm and concentrates, his eyes flutter shut as aether begins to mend the cuts. While he works, Jote explains to Naoya.]

"His Grace can heal people, but he can't do it too much. He's very--"

[Just as the cuts finish closing, Joshua coughs into the crook of his arm.]

"...sick."

[He looks down at the cuts, watching them close. He's a little curious as to how it works. He watches the other's small form shake and kneels down to support his back.]

Don't push yourself. You shouldn't use it if you're going to hurt yourself.

[He would have been fine. Joshua...]

You need to look after yourself first and foremost, 'duty' or no.

[For the first time since Naoya entered, Jote looks up at him approvingly. See? This big, rude jerk gets it!]

[Joshua, on the other hand, scrunches his little nose and shakes his head.]

I can't leave someone hurt. Especially when I can help.

[He sits up against Naoya's hand, trying to prove that he's capable.]

I'm fine now, Sir...

[Joshua tilts his head.]

What is your name? You know mine, but I haven't heard yours.

[Why are you such an adorable child, Joshua? That's unfair.]

Naoya. It's not a name that's native to your tongue. I come from... quite a far way away.

I was searching for you, you know. You don't remember it right now, but you're a friend of my cousin's.

[He can't help it, okay?]

[Just like how he can't help the way his eyes light up at Naoya's words.]

A friend? I've made a friend?

[He glances at Jote, grinning. She smiles back at him.]

I'm sorry that I've forgotten him, but what is his name?

Are you my friend, as well, Sir Naoya?

It's all right. His name is Kazuya. ANd I'm sure you two will enjoy a lot of time together once you remember.

[He crouches by Joshua's bedside so he stops looming quite so much.]

As for us... I'm not quite sure that 'friend' is the word for it. But we are allies, at least. You're a good man.

[He looks to Jote and huffs a little bit.]

Though it seems you have allies of your own.

[He's... not going to bring up Joshua's mother. He's not sure what he thinks of her, and insulting her in front of her son seems both ill-advised and ill-mannered.]

Kazuya.

[Joshua practices the name (as well as Naoya's) under his breath, although he's still listening to Naoya speak. That beaming smile never leaves his face.]

A good man, like Brother and Father. I'll do my best to stay that way.

Then, I'll make more friends and allies like you, and Kazuya, and...

[He glances at Jote, and she looks at him expectantly.]

...hmm. No. Jote is more special than an ally. I don't know why, but, I feel it in my heart.

[Joshua glances back at Naoya. The smile begins to fade into something more contemplative. Meanwhile, Jote, seemingly happy with what Joshua had to say about her, trots off to make herself busy elsewhere, organizing some of the stocked shelves.]

I'm afraid there's much I don't know or remember, Sir Naoya. I'm sorry.

Have you been sent here to help me?

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