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

Oh come now. What normal hawk would fly towards potential danger? Especially in an area with those nasty little redcaps hanging around?

[Alastor leans on his microphone staff that he summons out of nowhere.]

The latter means you didn't realize they were a potential threat to you, making you new to this forest. And given most of the wildlife in this little dreamworld tends to be a bit odd with multiple things blended together, you being a "normal" hawk is unlikely.

[This guy is either an alien or… no, magic isn’t real. That’s stupid. He tilts his head and screeches at Alastor.]

[Totally normal.]

[…]

[This… isn’t working, is it? Alastor will hear a flat voice in his head. It’s young, probably a teenager or preteen.]

<Meow.>

[Alastor's ears prick with clear interest.]

Telepathy! Well, aren't you a wonder, my good fellow?

[Alastor gives a bow.]

Alastor! Pleasure to be meeting you! Quite a pleasure!

[Definitely some kind of deer-like creature.. huh.]

<Tobias. ... What kind of alien are you?>

[He doesn't want to be rude...]

Not an alien at all! Just a human who got his just desserts after his death! A sinner demon!

[Because, you know, that's normal.]

Is that what you are? A shape-shifting human? I've never gotten to see one before even in this strange place!

[A demon. ... Huh. Why is that harder to believe than aliens?]

<I've never seen a demon before. And I'm a hawk.>

[Technically he's correct. It's just not the whole story.]

Never met a talking hawk before either!

[He's just gonna roll with it. It's either the truth or this place will out the truth sooner or later. Reverein could be annoying like that at times.]

So this is a new experience for both of us! Quite marvelous, don't you agree?

Edited 2024-02-23 14:37 (UTC)

<It sure is interesting, at least. The prey out here's also... interesting.>

[Because what the hell were you just hunting, Alastor?]

<Those little elf things looked like they were from a cookie package or something.>

Redcaps. Nasty little creatures, really. They like to kill people and then dip their caps in the blood.

My shadow and I make it a habit to thin their numbers so they don't think to try overrunning the town. Mysterious murders where the victims are viciously butchered? The first suspects are the neighbors with claws and teeth.

[Purely enlightened self-interest. Don't think too much about it, Tobias.]

<See and I'd blame aliens for that, since there's at least a couple kinds I can think of who would do that.>

[Though usually not on their own - usually when Yeerks are controlling them.]

I take it aliens are somewhat common in the version of Earth you come from?

<They are, but most people don't know. And most of the ones that do know are in league with the bad kind of aliens.>

[But he's talking to a demon (supposedly) so it's hard to know which is weirder.]

Some sort of invading force and quite a subtle one that employs collaborators? Impressive! Combatants in Hell tend to be much more open about such things. Then again, we sinners can't really die except for angelic weapons, so why not get blown to smithereens? You'll put yourself back together in a few weeks.

<Yeah, we can... definitely die.>

[He would rather not think about it, let alone experience it. It'd be devastating to lose any of the Animorphs.]

<There's a small group of us fighting them, but none of us are considered adults in our culture.>

[Even if his body is basically an adult, hawks don't technically really have a 'culture'. So he's still not wrong.]

Other animals?

[The question is asked dryly, obviously knowing that isn't the case.]

<What do you think?>

[Yes and no.]

Humans that become animals then.

[Because there's no way you're just some damn hawk.]

[He rolls his eyes and leans on his microphone which just appeared from fucking nowhere as his shadow begins stacking bodies for easy transport once they're done.]

Which is what you are, I'll wager. Or something like that.

One thing you need to learn about this place is that it has a bad habit of revealing secrets at times we find most vexxing or unfortunate. You can keep your secrets for now -- it's your business -- but don't be surprised if someone meanders into a dream of yours and finds out who or what you really are.

[There's a long pause where it seems like he might not answer before he finally speaks up again. His 'voice' is very even, as if he's trying to keep any and all emotion out of it.]

<I have reasons for my secrets. We all do - I'm sure you have some of your own. But trying to pry it out of me isn't going to win you any points, Bambi.>

[He can morph into things that would eat you for breakfast. Or maybe lunch.]

<I'd like to get back home though. We kind of have a war to fight.>

As I said before, I'll not pry. What you were prior to now is your business until something makes it my business. Same as my past to you. It's sort of an unwritten rule here.

[And he might not be able to easily access his full demon form nowadays, but you will regret trying to eat him.]

And I'm afraid that until you wake from this dream, you're stuck here. Though if it's any consolation, time doesn't match up with where we came from. I've been here for about two and a half years but it all took place in a single night.

<... I guess that's good. If I'm dreaming... it'll be at least good to have a dream that's not trying to kill me.>

[He's had enough dreams of Yeerks - especially Taylor's - to last a lifetime or three.]

<Any other 'unwritten rules' I should know about?>

Oh that doesn't mean nothing will try to kill you. The redcaps are just the tip of the iceberg, really! But at least you don't need to worry about your usual nightterrors! Ha ha ha!

Be wary of the dark places. Just as there's dream energy about, there's also nightmare energy that can take the form of creatures known as noctaere. Far more powerful than the usual creatures that might think to try and eat you for supper. It's possible to even become one with enough negative emotion though positive emotion can return you to normal.

As far as other unwritten rules, the overarching one is generally "don't start none and there won't be none".

<I generally don't try to start trouble. Doing that with other birds gets you driven out of territory, and it's not much better with humanoids.>

[As for the rest... hm. Best to have a battle morph ready. Maybe he could acquire some of these noctaere? He's not sure - could be useful to try.]

<Though uh - how common are non-humans here?>

[Could you acquire Alastor? That'd be a handy morph to have on hand if only for the "OH SHIT IT'S HIM RUN!" reaction many of the less shadowy nasties would have.]

We're a fairly mixed bag, honestly. I'd say it's about half and half? Though some of us are technically both like me.

[Depends if he's made of magic or DNA. But yes, could be useful.]

[He's also both, but he doesn't want to talk about that right now.]

<I see... so a talking bird isn't going to get weird looks? Or at least, quite as many?>

[That is...a good question. It could be both but would the DNA reflect his demon form or his original human one?]

You'd get odd looks, but you're not the oddest member of the menagerie. No, that honor falls to my friend Black Raisin Cookie who, yes, is a living cookie. She looks like a gingerbread woman and has a flock of raisin crows with her constantly. And they're all the size of the actual treats.

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