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

[She does feel a little bad about it, especially when she sees the look that he gives her, but she tries to brush it off easily as she goes back inside the house to fetch Eustace's other jar, leaving him to pick up the one that Melody had found.]

I doubt it, but we should follow it anyway. It's gotta lead somewhere, yeah? These woods have to come to an end eventually, and all streams empty out.

[The brief moment they're apart both helps and...makes him feel a little worse as he can only think how she's going to remain on edge around him until this is over. Stupid shitty curse—

But he'll help get the jar out, picking it up and brushing it off before holding it as he looks up when she returns.]

It'll at least give us something tangible to follow instead of wandering in some random direction.

[His eyes then move to her leg.]

...Will you be able to walk?

[With the jar clutched in one hand...

...

She sees the way he's looking at her, and she reaches her free one out to take his, lacing their fingers together tight.]

Now I will.

[Tifa flashes him her own small, apologetic smile before she addresses him and the dogs.]

Let's all stick together, okay? Absolutely no wandering off.

[He still looks at her concerned... But he'll just tighten his hand over hers, the warmth reassuring as he looks over at the dogs who bark.

...

And why is Melody sticking around Valo—]

Let's go.

[And with Idris just running ahead a little, Eustace will guide them down the treeline like he took before, but he'll keep his pace slow to keep up with Tifa.]

[They make good time, or so she thinks... It's hard to tell when she can't see the sun through the trees. It must be late morning by now, but it still looks like it's the middle of the night down here, even as they walk along the stream. It's oddly peaceful, almost eerily so, the only sound the trickling of the water and their footsteps as they move along.]

A little strange... [She starts, eager to break the silence as she looks at the running water beside them.] How can something so calming also make me so nervous?

Likely due to how unnatural it all seems... And knowing that there is a spell or curse over this place.

[His hand gently squeezes hers.]

Mm.

[She's definitely starting to slow down in her steps, a little wince here and there whenever she's forced to step on that leg... but she's managing.

For now.]

This forest wasn't here before though, was it?

[He's noticing her steps slowing, but he won't say anything...for now.]

I... ...

[His voice trail as he frowns and looks at it.]

I'm not sure. Some of it seems familiar, but this clearing certainly wasn't around. I have a feeling it's been altered due to the curse.

Wait, you think this has always been part of the one in the Wildlands?

[Her brow furrows.]

Feels almost like this whole thing just dropped in out of nowhere, what with that new bridge and all. Wouldn't be the first time.

No, I mean parts of it is the same, but the rest of it was changed, like that bridge you mentioned.

Ah, right.

[Her brow furrows as she looks around, down to the running water as it slowly races them to wherever it will lead.]

Let's just hope that it all goes away when this is done. Don't wanna have to worry about this happening aga—shit.

[It isn't that she trips on anything, but Tifa's leg finally gives out and she stumbles forward, the only thing saving her from falling completely is Eustace's hand that she grips tight. The ache had only grown and grown the longer they walked, and it might have been that little dip in the path that finally did her in.]

[It won't be just his hand, but his other arm will wrap around her before she can lurch forward too far. But seeing this he frowns more heavily and looks at her, the dogs already whining as they gather around.]

You can't keep going like this.

I—

[She sounds like she's about to argue because she is, but the stubbornness in her voice lasts for all of a second before she slumps against him.]

... No, you're right.

[Though it doesn't do anything to diminish the defeat in her expression, or in her sigh.]

I can't expect you to carry me the whole way back, though.

[There's a moment where he looks at her first sympathetically and then a little more thoughtfully.]

No... I think it would be all right.

[Tifa lifts her gaze up to him, worry tightening her features.]

... You're sure? Could be a long walk.

[Just a light grin.]

Did you forget? I'm the "Big Bad Wolf."

[And there will be a swirl of shadow around him before a giant black wolf appears in his place, blue eyes glowing almost eerily compared to the pitch black fur.]

[There are those shadows again, and along with them, another spike of panic within her, but when he transforms, she ends up falling, draping herself over his neck with her arms around it to support herself, bringing her almost eye to eye with the giant black wolf... and those bright blue eyes.

Only then, as she stares into them, does it finally click.]

Wait, you're not serious, are you? You want me to get on your back?

It wouldn't be the first time.

[Just an idle swish of his tail before he thumps it against her and crouches down.]

Get on.

[But it would be the first time in a cursed forest...

Tifa clutches the jar tightly, tucking it against herself, and at first, she does look a little unsure about it...

...

Before she just sighs and clambers onto his back, one hand reaching into his fur gently to hold onto him, her face lowering and nuzzling into the long fur on his neck.]

This good?

Mm.

[She'll feel the low rumble from his throat as he glances back at her...before he feels the eyes of a certain princess looking up at him with biiig eyes followed by another set with equally biiiiig eyes...

...]

You can hop on, too.

[This form is much bigger than the other times he's transformed, so he actually could carry the dogs.]

[Tifa just chuckles softly under her breath, closing her eyes a moment as she breathes in slow, hearing Bri hop onto his back behind her where she plops right up against Tifa.

Even in this form, he still smells very much like himself, and it's... oddly comforting, especially given everything that's happened since this whole mess started. To know that he still retained some parts of him even through the enchantment...]

Does everyone else want a ride, too?

[Valo and Idris just give a low groan, and Melody trots right up beside Valo, her tail wagging happily while he glances down at her.

With a laugh, Tifa shakes her head and waits for them to carry on again before continuing with her line of thinking.]

... You know. Makes me wonder how many other people got caught up in this curse, too.

I remember seeing others pass through the woods... But you were the first I really encountered.

[He muses as he straightens and starts trotting up the lake, the other dogs following close.

For better or worse. Perhaps for the better or he would have felt a lot worse about what he could have done.]

Did you come by with anyone else in town?

No... not yet. Was mostly here to find you and Lyria.

[All the corgis whine, signaling that no, they had not been able to find her when she sent them off running.]

I'm wondering though... if there might be a way to break the magic for good? There's always a catch.

[—Wait.]

Lyria's missing?

[He actually cranes his neck around upon hearing that.]

That's the thing. I don't know.

[Her fingers curl further into the fur.]

I figured that either she would be out here cursed, or out looking, if Eria told her anything. I just wanted the dogs to find her, and make sure she was safe.

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