songerein | { once upon a fairytale }

Entry tags:

{ 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

"...Go on, then."

Oh, tonight's dream was a very good one. While he wasn't keen on knowing that his headspace had this guy in it, that didn't mean that the good old King of Hell couldn't have a little sneeze of fun.

So perched in a nearby tree was a songbird with a bowtie and a little top hat. The bird was so poofy, so pleased as punch.

"From deep in the belly, not the shoulders! That's the ticket."

Alastor looked up, grin sharpening. "Well, well, well. It's been a while since any Lucifer showed up here. Just my luck it had to be you."

He was not singing that song. Forget it.

Any Lucifer? What? What's that even-

Eh, anyway.

"If you're out of practice and need a lead-in, of course, I'm generous enough to provide..."

"Very generous! I had a craving for squab."

He wasn't out of practice. He did musical numbers all the time.

But he was not singing this song. No. No way. It'd be too embarrassing.

"HA! Haha, no, no- I'm flattered, guy, but you're not my type."

The bird dove down, swooped to the floor and landed neatly on tiny little bird feet. His wings remained open, beak taking a breath:

"With me, now...!"

♫ I have a dream I'm here to tell... ♫

Alastor blinked uncomprehendingly at Lucifer's crude joke. Give him a bit. It'll hit him late at night when he least expects it.

It was a good thing he didn't show up in video anyways. No chance at all of him being recorded for blackmail.

♪♫ About a wonderful fantastic new hotel!
Yes, it's one of a kind, right here in Hell
Catering to a specific clientele! ♪♫

More bubble notes started to appear, a trail that would surely lead to a flute.

Exorcists, where are you?

Exorcists? Don't be silly! Why would they even dream up such a nice place like this and make a mess of it?

♫ Inside of every demon is a rainbow
Inside every sinner is a shiny smile
Inside of every creepy hatchet-wielding maniac
Is a jolly, happy, cupcake-loving child!

We can turn around, they'll be heaven bound
With just a little time down at the Happy Hotel! ♫

Oh, what are these...? Lucifer shifted into a very dapper terrier and started to follow the trail.

Alastor broke into a jog as the tempo picked up

♪♫ So, all you junkies, freaks and weirdos,
Creepers, fuck-ups, crooks and zeroes
And downfallen superheroes, help is here!
All of you cretins, sluts and losers, sexual deviants and boozers
And prescription drug abusers, need not fear
Forever again, we'll cure your sin!
We'll make you well, you'll feel so swell
Right here in Hell at the Happy Hotel! ♪♫

The bubbles kept appearing faster and faster appropriately in all the colors of the rainbow.

Okay, there was one thing about this silly song that he liked: It was fun to sing. His reprise was better, of course, but this was still fun.

You and your reprises, old timer...

♫ There'll be no more fire,
And no more screams
Just puppy dog kisses, and cotton candy dreams
And puffy-wuffy clouds, you're gonna be like "Wow!"
Once you check in with meeeee~!

So, all your cartoon porn addictions,
Vegan rants, psychic predictions,
Ancient Roman crucifixions
End right here! ♫

The dog paused. ...What was that over there...?

You know it was good. And if he's an old timer, what does that make you?

♪♫ All you monsters, thieves and crazies, cannibals and crying babies
Frothing mouth is full of rabies, filled with cheer! ♪♫

The sound of flute music drew Alastor's ear as he reached up to pop a few of the bubbles. One of them had to have a clue for the next step. It wasn't likely that the flute would be just sitting out waiting to be broken.

♪♫ You'll be complete! It'll be so neat!
Our service can't be beat! You'll be on easy street! Yes!
Life will be sweet, at the Happy Hotel! ♪♫

Not that one, not that one...Aha! A scroll landed in his hands.

♪♫ Yeah! ♪♫

Now to see what they were working with!

Don't apply logic to this inner monologue, buck-o!

The dog hopped, and shifted back to the fallen angel as Alastor popped the bubbles. He brushed off his coat and settled it back into place.

"...So you're into scavenger hunts, huh?" Didn't seem like the type to play another's game. But, eh! Here they were.

"What goose needs chasing now?"

"A flute, actually."

Alastor unrolled the scroll as they entered into a clearing filled with concentric circles of stones. In the center was the flute resting on a makeshift altar of stone.

"Let's see..."

There were musical notes on the page. A shame he didn't have perfect pitch. He had to "feel" for where the starting note was. Once he had that, the intervals would help guide the rest of the notes.

Well. Alastor. Al. ~~Bellhop.~~ You're not being a very good partner right now. He couldn't see what's on the sheet.

With a little kick off, six wings sprouting from his back, it was no issue hovering over Alastor's shoulder instead to see what the matter was. More music, but sheet music this time. This first key-

Absently, Lucifer started vocalizing the notes under his breath, trying to work out if it was a song he recognized. Luckily for the Sinner here, he was teamed up with the literal voice of an angel.

He didn't need your help! ~~You dud.~~

Alastor's ears pinned back in irritation because, dammit, of course the angel had perfect pitch! What a complete -- !

One of the circles of stones lit up green.

He went quiet as Lucifer sang the notes, eyes locked onto the circles. There were only eight notes on the page, seven notes apparently corresponding to one of the circles which were red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet while the last caused the makeshift altar to glow white. However, each circle would light up and go dark depending on the notes hit.

♪♫ Inside of every demon is a rainbow ♪♫

That was six different notes, some of them repeated. One or two lined up with the colorful rings but that wasn't the key to it.

"Eight notes. Charlie's song led us here and the rings are a rainbow. Charlie's singing has to be the key."

He wracked his brain. Songs Charlie had sung...shit. What had he heard her sing?

♪♫ I can do this, somehow I know it
I'll get Heaven behind my plans
There's just no way I could blow it
Not this once in a lifetime chance
To change their minds or touch their hearts
Or whatever angels have
Cheer up, Vaggie! This'll be swell!
Something tells me that today will be a happy day in Hell! ♪♫

Some of the circles lit up and darkened.

"Wrong song. Ummm...maybe..."

♪♫ For the first time in my life
I might have to be ready for this
Ready to be the one who's leading from the front
Gotta come into my own
Gotta come into my throne
Gotta take charge and defend my only home
And although I kinda feel unsteady
Now I need to be ready for this ♪♫

Alastor growled. Again, nothing.

What a curious security system. Curse? Puzzle? He couldn't be sure. He'd never dreamed of things like this before... but he never really dreamed of Big Red, either.

It was pretty neat to know just how many songs of Charlie's he'd heard. It was enough that he wasn't bothered by the notion of hearing more than him- she just liked to express herself through song is all, much to the dismay of a number of folk.

...Hmm. It wasn't her interview's musical number, nor was it her cheer-up tune. What else had...

...had...

Privately, he brought his hand to his chest. He felt... warm, for once.

♫ More than anything
More than anything
I need to save my people more than anything... ♫

Her conviction. Her spirit. How could he ever say no to that...?

Each circle lit up in sequence until finally the altar glowed on the last note. Whatever barrier kept the flute from being taken fell.

Alastor's ears flattened in irritation, muttering curses under his breath as he walked over and picked up the flute.

Well, in some ways it made sense: His "people" in this case were the people of Reverein. However, it felt like grains of sand under ones nails to know that it was Lucifer's duet with Charlie that had been the solution.

"Well-done, I suppose," he grudgingly admitted.

It all dissipated and the smile Lucifer gave to Alastor, complete with a brief eyelash flutter, was the epitome of the very sin he embodied.

You're welcome.

"You know, if you need a little extra singing practice, I'm a fantastic tutor. Keep you from getting rusty." A brief little nudge with an elbow.

But his eyes trailed to the flute. ...What was it that the message said before he awoke? 'Break the spell before it becomes a curse'...?

"Ha ha! Fuck you!" Alastor snapped, leaning into the king's face.

It was likely Lucifer wouldn't be around for long. It happened frequently enough: someone appearing, getting lost, but then disappearing again a few days later when things went back to normal. All he had to do was wait it out.

But, oh, it was going to be such a pain to get through however long it is!

"All right. Now the easy part: breaking it."

Unless Lucifer stopped him, Alastor was going to snap it over his spindly knee...and pretend it was Lucifer's neck.

So touchy. In honesty, his voice wasn't bad. The radio shtick just didn't do some of the keys any favors, in his opinion.

Lucifer wouldn't interrupt. He watched the flute be snapped, and offered some very pointless golf applause in response.

"...Now what?"

The curse didn't feel very broken to him. Or was there more to this weird scavenger hunt he happened upon?

Lies and slander!

"Now..." He put both pieces in one hand to burn them to ash. "...we have to repeat the process. The wretched thing keeps coming back and trapping more people with its song. It's making them sleepwalk, forcing them into fairytale roles."

He raised an eyebrow.

"Essentially, it's The Pied Piper's curse."

"That... explains why I was stuck in my snake shape for a while. I fully believed I was someone else. The 'Frog Prince'." He furrowed his eyebrows, planted hands upon his hips.

"So storybooks really are the gimmick... but to what end? What does this Pied Piper want?"

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ once upon a fairytale }

Flute Search

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject