{ 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

[lonelysmiles]

Ah, if only it were that simple!

I assume you didn't pay the least bit of attention to the tapirs.

[grumpface]

An' why the hell would I? They come up to me spouting bullshit about dreams and dream motion or somethin', get the fuck out of here. I know what my dreams are like and they ain't this. I know I haven't been redeemed, no fuckin' way.

Neither of us died, either. Saw your scrawny ass sneak in singin' with the rest of them when the hotel was finally fully rebuilt.

So I'm all out of ideas.

[lonelysmiles]

Ah, why am I not in the least bit surprised?

[His smile sharpens at the reminder that he wasn't nearly as invincible as many or even he belived himself to be. At the hotel he was still healing, but here he'd woken up to find a scar marking where Adam had nearly cleaved him in two.]

And we're certainly not in Heaven! No, I doubt Heaven ever experiences bizarre weather patterns like raining starfish!

[Alastor spreads his arms wide.]

Welcome to this crazy shared dream that has no rhyme or reason for picking who ends up here! Everything from the living to mythical creatures to angels to demons from all sorts of realms! The price of admission is some lost abilities, but in exchange it's an all-expenses-paid vacation from eternal damnation!

And you, my dear friend, are the latest winner of a golden ticket!

[grumpface]

[Some lost abilities- You know what, Husk doesn't really care about that all that much. He never really used any demonic abilities from the very start of his stay in hell. He even tries to refrain from cat nightvision and even purring.]

[Husk can't help but let loose a minor fit of grumpy grumbling while pinching the bridge of his nose.]

...Fuck it. Fine, boss. Now since we're here and not in hell at the moment, what the fuck am I supposed to do now? I can't exactly be the fuckin' bartender of Hazbin while I'm here.

[lonelysmiles]

Well, that's where you seem to be in for some luck!

[He pops over to Husk's side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.]

Soul bonds are a tricky thing here! During Angel's brief stay, his bond to Valentino was stretched so thin, it was practically non-existent! One duo chose to form a mutually-beneficial bond out of friendship, but as soon as one of them left, it, too, was stretched incredibly thin!

Let's see what we're working with, hmm?

[He walks around in front of Husk, summoning the chain that binds Husk to him.]

[It's still there, but it's faded, not as strong as it is in Hell.]

I don't imagine I'd do much with this even if I gave you a good hard yank. Enough to get some sense of where you were, but I doubt I'd be able to teleport you to me.

[grumpface]

[Husk wasn't really asking how free he was. More like what his orders were. But seeing the faded strength of the chains... Husk's eyebrows shoot up. Husk goes to reach up and touch the shackle around his neck but stops about halfway. It's better to not have Alastor assume any escape attempts were being made.]

["...So what about yours?"]

[Fucking as if. Husk would NEVER be that dumb. Husk clears his throat.]

S- so, Boss... I'm... just allowed to walk wherever the fuck I please here? Gamble where I want to? Drink in whatever fuckin' club I step into?

[lonelysmiles]

The only thing stopping you is that there aren't many clubs here. It's a small town.

But that leaves plenty of opportunities, doesn't it? You could even open your own little casino if you got up the energy to!

CW: Gambling Addiction

[grumpface]

[At the mention of being allowed to open up a casino, Husk breathes a shaky, heavily-enticed breath. Alastor may see in Husk's very being the urge to gamble shooting up way off the scale. He stares intensely into Alastor's eyes.]

...Tell me right the fuck now who I need to speak to in order to make that happen.

[lonelysmiles]

[Alastor is not a good person. He's been on his best behavior here in Reverein, yes, but that doesn't mean he doesn't enjoy giving people enough rope to hang themselves with from time to time.]

You mean some sort of planning committee or great overlord? [Alastor leans in, grinning.] There isn't one. You find an empty space nobody wants? You're free to move in.

Honestly, the hardest part would be what to gamble for. My ability to make Deals doesn't work here, for example, so I doubt you'd be able to trade souls either. That and there's no money here. It's the barter system, favors for favors.

[grumpface]

[Husk grins excitedly when Alastor informs him of the empty space policy... only to get a giant, hollow, dropping pit in his chest about the news of there being basically no reason to gamble. HOW THE FUCK IS HE GONNA WIN BIG IF THERE'S NO BIG WIN ABAILABLE? Fuck Husk's life all the way to the bottom ring of hell and back to Pride.]

You really know how to make my life a huge fuckin' bundle of joy and happiness, don'tcha...?

[lonelysmiles]

I try!

[His grin widens.]

But it's favors for favors, remember? You can't own someone's soul but that doesn't mean you can't gamble for something that might prove just as valuable.

[Husk would know that not all of Alastor's Deals are for souls. He makes plenty of little Deals, Deals that give Alastor leverage when people least expect it.]

[grumpface]

[...This is suck a rollercoaster and FUCK YOU ALASTOR YOU PIECE OF SHITHJAIPJDIOIDWHOIJDWIPOJWDFOIDFJHLKWND-]

[Husk sighs.]

I guess I can fuckin' work with that. ...But later.

[He huffs.]

So you seem to be more familiar with this place than most of the fucker's I talked to... After searchin' for some more wacked-out freaks and settin' them straight, how's about a proper tour so I can get my bearings?

[lonelysmiles]

[YOU'RE WELCOME, GOOD BUDDY!]

I should think so! Why, I've been here for almost two and a half years all over the course of my first night in the hotel! [He buffs his claws on his chest.] I should hope by now I've learned my way around and would be more than happy to give you the grand tour!

[And despite the fact there's a radio tower that actually blends in with the place, he's not running the joint. Though the latter probably isn't that much of a surprise given he took out all the old overlords yet kept it quiet until the very end.]

[grumpface]

[Okay... wonderful. There's no doubt Husk will get acclimated quicker with some extra help, even if it's from someone he absolutely despises. As for these weirdos doing weird things, Husk will allow Alastor to take the lead unless Alastor just stands there awkwardly waiting for Husk to escort him.]

...So, uh...

[Husk is going into this question fully expecting to be disappointed.]

...Is or was Sir Pentious ever here?

[lonelysmiles]

Just Angel, no other Sinners. Well, none from our Hell, at least.

[Because that's a thing he's learned to roll with.]

Though we did have a small collection of imps and a hellhound along with Prince Stolas and his daughter.

But it's been just me from our Hell for the most part since this place started pulling in dreamers. And now you!

[grumpface]

[Husk raises an eyebrow at that "our hell" thing. ...Neat.]

...If Charlie ever gets here... don't tell her. She'll never stop gushin' and smilin' about that shit, you know how she is.

...Stolas? You mean,... one of the Goetians? Pff... Next you're gonna tell me Adam is here to bitch at us.

[Don't worry, Husk is just venting off a little steam.]

[lonelysmiles]

Don't tell her about which part?

[And he laughs at the last part.]

No no no no, the last angel I knew was here has been gone for quite some time! [Though he still misses Yoshiya from time to time.] The only connections to Adam you'll find here are his progeny!

[Which could be interpreted as all humans including former humans like themselves. No need to tell Husk that a version of Cain and Abel are here living under different names.]

[grumpface]

The "different hells" thing. I mean, it would help with the whole overpopulation shit, unless those other hells' Pride rings are also just as overpopulated. Charlie would be all over that shit.

[Well, good. Fuck Adam. Good riddance to bad angelic rubbish.]

[lonelysmiles]

They're not structured the same way as ours are far as I can tell. Regardless, I doubt they'd take in "refugees" even if we could figure out some way to actually go to them.

In any case, she'd find out herself sooner or later. There's an ability everyone here has called "dreamwalking" which is precisely what it says on the tin.

[grumpface]

[The implications of that information lead Husk to one conclusion, after a bit of thinking.]

...Is there any way to... stop that bullshit from happenin'?

...And... if there ain't... Will that... excuse me?

[Husk is tense, on edge. If Charlie can't be kept from the info of other hells because of dreamwalking... And Husker would never EVER FUCKING EVER intentionally spill the secret...]

[lonelysmiles]

[Yeah, he knows.]

If someone finds out what you know through a dreamwalk, I won't hold it against you. I will be upset but I won't punish you. I doubt you're a lucid dreamer and would be able to control it.

[grumpface]

[...Eesh. Husk would very much prefer to make himself scarce if that ever happens.]

...Uh, good to know, but my dreams really ain't anythin' but a cold void of despair and misery...

[Husk would very much like to have a bottle in one of his empty hands right now.]

[lonelysmiles]

[Apparently the subtly-implied threat that if Alastor finds he can lucid dream and didn't at least try to stop it from getting out, he'd make sure Husk begged to be part of the screaming chorus in the static had gotten through!]

Wonderful! Then you've nothing to be worried about!

[He wraps an arm around Husk, pulling him into a side hug and nuzzling his fuzzy cheek. He honestly does like Husk...he just has a very warped idea of friendship given the sort of friendship he'd had with Mimzy.]

Now then, how's about we finish our task here and find you one of the local brews, hmm?

[grumpface]

[Husk is a demon, but has always tried to refuse from using any demon power besides dealmaking. Furthermore, he's tried refusing to use natural physiological abilities such as flying or anything cats do. But you can be DAMN WELL SURE IF HE EVER FINDS OUT HE CAN LUCID DREAMWALK OR WHATEVER, HE WILL PREVENT THE SECRET FROM GETTING OUT.

With that being said, NOPE NOPE NOPE ANNOYANCE IS RAPIDLY COMING BACK WHEN ALASTOR NUZZLES THAT CHEEK. Husk grimaces and growls a little. Fuck you. Also fuck your ability to entice him into cooperation. One of the local brews sounds very good.]

...Fine. I'll be keepin' an eye out for any trampled leaves or snapped twigs that make a trail.

[Husk isn't the best hunter or tracker, but he HAS picked up a few Overlord skills he can still make use of even if he isn't one. Such as looking for people.]

[lonelysmiles]

We are actually searching for a flute if you can believe it!

[Alastor releases Husk to take a few steps forward.]

So the most useful things we need to search for are the sound of its music or note-shaped bubbles that will provide us clues when popped!

After we're done, I know just the place to wet your whistle!