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 - Sleepwalking]

[Somewhere in the forest, not that deep in but deep enough, is a young man. He's dressed simply, in a tunic and slacks, and looking very worried. On his back is a bag that seems to rattle and clang and he's holding a sword, still sheathed.]

I'm sorry, do you know the way out? I've gotten a bit lost and my cousin needs this armour.

[It's probably a bit odd to see Ira like this. But he's not really Ira right now, but a young Arthur, who will one day be king, but for now, it might be more appropriate to call him Wart.]

[B - Castles]

i - sword

[Great, a castle! This is what he was looking for. If he can find a sword here, he can still make it back to the tournament in time. All he has to do is locate an armoury.

But there doesn't seem to be anyone around to direct him. And he's starting to get a bit desperate. No one's going to notice the sword in this stone going missing, will they? He'll put it back.

And so he reaches out to grab it.]

ii - Dragon

If it's not one thing, it's another.

No sooner has Ira recovered the sword, then there is a loud roar and the sound of rushing wings as a gigantic dragon lifts off from the tower that it was curled around. It swoops down over the courtyard in a threatening pass.]

Look out!

[Ira is going to tackle you out of the way of an oncoming burst of flame, before the dragon lands on the other side of the courtyard, causing the ground to shake. It growls, it's head lowered in a challenge.

And Ira stands and takes up the sword.]

Are you alright? I don't think we're getting past that thing easily.

[C - Swamp/Haunted Forest]

[Having successfully managed to escape the castle, Ira had fled.

He should know these woods. He's trained in them enough times, especially with Merlin. But the old wizard isn't here, and it's a bit different, navigating things as a squirrel than it is as a person.

He sits down on a stump to catch his breath, clutching the sword that was in the stone. It might be time to admit that he is lost in a dark, and very expensive forest.]

Merlin, of all the times I wish you were here.

[Though, there is the faint trill of a song.]

[D - Quests/Wildcard]

[When he's not sleepwalking, Ira is helping around town doing quests, and what he usually does. I'm interested in the Helping Hand or Starlight Smooches questions, but I am open to all of them.

Plotting can be done at Ira's CR Meme thread or at

urbaninja]

Edited 2024-02-15 03:18 (UTC)

[As another person lost in the forest, thanks to his sleepwalking curse, Joshua finds himself in a similar state of despair. He hasn't made a habit of traversing swamps, despite their prevalence in his homeland, but he knows enough to tell that this fog is unnaturally thick. His princely attire doesn't help.]

[But at the sound of a familiar voice, however quiet, Joshua's head perks, and he trudges through muck and moss in its direction.]

[He speaks at a volume just above a conversation, trying his best to balance calling attention to himself and allowing this other man to hear him.]

I may not be Merlin, but I am here.

[There's a look of relief on Ira's face, to find that he is not alone. But it is short lived.]

Are you lost as well?

These woods are hard to navigate.

[Joshua matches that relief with his own, just as short-lived as it fades into confusion.]

I am, yes, but working together should make for an easier time, Ira.

[He tests the waters with that name. His curse has been lifted (albeit temporarily), but he can't be sure if the same is true for his teacher.]

[Ira's curse is still in effect, but he blinks. Yes, Ira. That's his name. And he knows this person, even if Joshua is not fully registering as his student right now.

He manages a smile.]

Yes, it should. Hopefully we will be able to find the path out.

I keep looking for landmarks I am familiar with, but it hasn't gone well.

[There's no mismatched or negative response--that's good! Nebulous as Ira's state is, Joshua takes the victories where he can. Just as others have helped him break his own curse--however temporarily, if his foggy memories are anything to go by--he'll help Ira with his, if needed.]

[It's the least he can do to help the man patient and kind enough to teach him.]

Nature's landmarks can be misleading even in the best of times, and I've encountered few manmade structures about.

[Joshua reaches out with a hand to help Ira off the stump.]

We should be on our way before darkness falls. Two sets of eyes will be of greater use than one until then.

[And two sets of ears, if that distant song is going to be of any help.]

[Ira takes the hand and stands up, moving to collect his belongings. Even if they are not really his. But as long as his memories are what they are, he needs to get them back to his cousin. And he has the feeling he shouldn't let go of his sword.]

Yeah, we should leave. I'm probably in for it enough as it is.

But, you said manmade structures? I wasn't aware these woods had any. Beyond the castle anyway, and I came from there.

I've seen the occasional bridge or cottage, but nothing nearly as grandiose as the castle you've mentioned.

[Which can work in their favor--if there's only one, then it can be their primary landmark.]

Have you been out of the castle long?

That would make sense.

[Not that he knows much about anyone living out here. Especially in a swamp.]

Not too long. I just ran from there and was catching my breath. There was a dragon guarding it.

Of course it was also long enough for me to get lost.

[A dragon. Of course. No fairytale is complete without a dragon.]

[Joshua nods in understanding. At least they know what direction they don’t want to head in.]

It wouldn’t take long to lose oneself in unfamiliar nature. The fog does us no favors, either.

[He sighs, irritated.]

If I had my magicks at my disposal, I would light us a fire to guide the way. As it stands, I’ve only basic healing.

[There's the vague sense that Ira should be able to contribute to this, but he's not entirely sure how. It feels like something is missing.]

It certainly doesn't. I'm afraid all I really have is this sword and this armour. I'm not sure how much the latter will do.

But we could always try making a torch. Or getting as far as we could before it gets too dark.

[Oh.]

[Oh this is embarrassing.]

[Joshua clears his throat, finding it difficult to meet Ira's gaze.]

If I gather the materials, could I ask you to start the fire for the torch?

Yes, I should be able to do that. Merlin's attempts to teach me magic haven't gone so well, but I do know how to make a traditional fire.

[And he has enough presence of mind to carry some supplies. And as he does so, he's starts humming along to the song of the flute.]

Fret not about your magical prowess. Your traditional skills are most welcome and appreciated.

[As Ira starts working on the fire, Joshua starts to gather wood, making sure they're as dry as possible in a swamp environment.]

That song. I've heard it before.

Oh? Do you recall from where?

I feel like I've been hearing it a lot in this forest. Just, snatches on the wind, really.

[But it doesn't take long for him to get a fire going. Just a small one.]

[A small fire is all they need! Joshua continues to prep whatever wood he’s found as best he can, whittling away at it with his sword.]

The notes led me into the fog. I should have realized it was a trap, but the melody proved far too intriguing to ignore.

Thank the Founder for it. Otherwise, we would never have managed to find one another.

I admit I didn't start hearing them until I was well into the swamp. But I am grateful that it brought us together.

[He's quit for a moment, thinking and bringing the fire to life.]

Do you think it would be worth following? Perhaps there is more to it.

[Joshua finishes his work by wrapping a spare piece of fabric (a torn sleeve, no doubt, with the ornateness of his outfit and how ill-suited it is for travel) around the end of his makeshift torch.]

I think it is.

Whether we find friend or foe, we will at least have a direction.

[He hands the torch over to Ira so he can light it.]

[The presence of fire in the dark swamp is welcome, as is the warmth it brings, and Ira holds up the torch to illuminate the area around them.]

Further to that, it seems we have a path as well.

[And he holds out the torch to reveal the start of something worn into the ground.]

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[Ace had turned into some sort of witch as soom as he entered the forest,, with pointy hat, messy black dress, and long, pointy fingernails, also black, to make him look more sinister.

He watches Ira for a moment, blinking, trying to figure out if this is the same man he knows or not.]

No idea, but who's your cousin?

[If Ira is concerned, he does his best not to show it. If anything, this witch does look familiar.]

Ah, are you familiar with Sir Kay? He is competing in the tournament. I'm his squire.

Not at all!

[He smiles brightly, and looks over at the armour.]

Would you like some help carrying that?

Y-you would be willing to help me? Just like that?

[Surely there's a price attached. He's been warned by Merlin after all.]

Yeah, I'm a friend...ly witch. I won't hex you or anything, I'm offering help and company!

[With the way that it's said, Ira is a little bit suspicious.]

A hex is one thing, but should I be worried about a different kind of spell?

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ once upon a fairytale }

Ira | Kingdom Hearts

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