{ once upon a fairytale }

[dreamposts]

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.

Comments

[flamekthunder]

Mmm, and you'll make for a delicious meal.

[A low laugh as he nuzzles her with that wet nose of his, burrowing against her neck as he licks her.]

[starshower]

[The fact that it tickles and sends her into a fit of laughs makes her forget everything that had happened leading up to this, and that he could go back at any moment. If he did, this would no doubt be the worst position to be stuck in... but all she can think about is simply having a good time with her family. The sound of the excited barks and the warmth that he exudes when he is himself...

It's comforting in a place like this.

The flowers make it easy to forget, too. Not that she wants to, but it certainly helps.

Melody, however, isn't sure if this is an act or not, and her barks turn higher pitched when Tifa dramatically lets her arms fall away.]

This is the end for me...

[flamekthunder]

[Noticing the dogs starting to question whether he is still himself, the shadows will erupt around them as he changes back, his arms now holding her in a dramatic villainous way.]

Hmm, but perhaps I should dine on my prey in a more suitable place...

[And he lifts her up closer so that his lips are against her ear, whispering lowly so only she can hear.]

Like in bed?

[And a playful nip of her ear before he just unceremoniously drops her back into the flowers with a laugh.]

[starshower]

[She's just about to say something right back through her smile, even though she's playing dead, but then she's dropped right into the flowers, sending petals flying up when she lands back in them with a soft cry of surprise.

One eye pops open up at him, and she grins.]

Guess we're going to need that flute sooner than we thought, huh...

[flamekthunder]

So it would seem.

[But just as he says it, there will be the sound of music trilling nearby, and the dogs bark as they run over to a large flower that's starting to sprout nearby, and within it will be a flute.]

[starshower]

[Her eyes linger on him for just a little bit longer as the dogs all rush to this new flower before she's pushing herself up to watch, too. She'll let Eustace investigate as she brushes the petals out of her hair.]

Is it the flute that we need?

[flamekthunder]

Your guess is as good as mine... But it's at least something.

[He'll approach, but he's not sure if he should be the one to touch it, instead looking at Tifa carefully.]

...Just be careful, we don't know what this could do.

[starshower]

[Sad that the moment is over...

She blinks right back at him for a few heartbeats, sensing his hesitation, before she's finally pushing herself up to her feet.]

Do you want me to try...?

[flamekthunder]

[.....Now he's hesitating even more.]

I'm not sure. What if you fall under the curse instead? But if I touch it, I'm not sure if it would cause a negative reaction since I'm already affected.

[starshower]

Well, if it does curse me, then at least you'd be able to handle me and my little leg if anything bad happens.

[She gives it a little wiggle before she wanders over to the giant lily.]

Better me than you, yeah?

[flamekthunder]

You know how I would answer that.

[A flat look, but he's reaching out to help her closer.]

But what are we to do with it? Did you hear anything before coming in?

[starshower]

[She shakes her head with a rueful smile.]

... No. Nothing besides what I already told you. The fae at the bridge just said that people who'd been lured in here hadn't been seen coming out yet, and there was some strong magic in here.

[Bri whines at Tifa then, and she pauses, a thought occurring to her.]

Ah, but there was something. A message that appeared. Something about the music ending...?

[flamekthunder]

The music ending? Like whatever had been playing that drew some of us to begin with?

[starshower]

I'm not sure... Maybe?

[Her brow furrows helplessly. She was in too much of a rush to find him to stop and read it through more than her initial skim.]

There's no music playing now, so I can only guess that's what it meant.

[flamekthunder]

[His brow furrows as he stares at the flute, which just lies dormant and silent in front of them. It can't be so easy...]

If we consider all options, based on what you said the initial conclusion would be to break this flute. But it's also possible this is some kind of trap or there's something more to it.

[starshower]

Only one way to find out, isn't there?

[And she's certainly not going to let the dogs do anything with it.]

If I end up cursed and attack any of you, I'm giving you all full permission to knock me out and carry me home.

[flamekthunder]

[HE DOESN'T LOOK HAPPY ABOUT THAT DON'T JOKE??? But he sighs, running a hand over his eyes.]

Just be careful.

[starshower]

[SHE'S NOT JOKING???]

Always am.

[Even the dogs back up to give some space as Tifa approaches the flower. She reaches out, hesitates for a moment, her hand drawing back an inch when fear strikes her, but she steels herself and presses on past it, plucking the flute from the flower as if it were just another petal.

She waits, holding it carefully in both hands, to see what might happen, if anything...

So far so good.]

So, think I should try breaking it?

[flamekthunder]

[EVEN WORSE.

He watches with some unease, not knowing what could happen the moment she touched the flute. Even now he can only watch with tension.]

...If it would lend to stopping the music...

[starshower]

[She gives a nod and holds the flute with both hands wrapped firmly around each end of it...

...

....

And snaps it clean in half, eyes never leaving Eustace as she does. She gives it another few seconds to see before asking—]

Do you feel any different?

[flamekthunder]

[They wait... And wait... The dogs even whine as Valo pushes his head against Eustace's leg, but...]

...Nothing. I don't feel any change.

[starshower]

[The amount of relief that she feels in immeasurable, and she slumps the tension out of her shoulders with a sigh.]

Thank god...

[Slowly, she hands Eustace the flute.]

Here. You should hang onto it. Just in case.

[flamekthunder]

[He's not sure if he should feel relieved... Because with that "nothing" he's not sure if the spell is off him or not. However, at least things aren't worse so there is that.

He'll slowly take the broken flute staring at it.]

And you?

[starshower]

[She'll definitely take nothing right now over anything else.]

I'm okay. [Tifa snorts quietly to herself.] Was hoping it might help with the leg, but that still hurts, too.

... Not even sure what that did, but guess we'll find out later.

[flamekthunder]

Mm. If we find others that would help as well.

[He then moves closer to her and rests his head against hers, sighing.]

...Let's just try to leave for now. I'll carry you.