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

[ Clive doesn't know how it's possible for his 'waking' self to be doing anything at all, since the last thing he remembers was slowly losing consciousness on a moonlit beach, presumably as his body slowly calcified and crumbled. Perhaps souls can dream, too, or perhaps his condition wasn't as dire as he believed it to be. Maybe someone is going to find him back on that Valisthean beach and nurse him back to... not health, but back to some form of stability.

Who's to say?

All he knows right now is that he and Joshua are together again, as they were always meant to be, and when the poem is produced he can only grin in bemusement. ]

An adventure with you? How could I say no? You're the one who knows what he's doing here, not me--where do we begin?

[It would be very easy for Joshua to get those answers for Clive. He may even have some of them handy already. He would just have to learn about his older brother washing up on that beach.]

[Joshua matches Clive's grin with one of his own with a glint of mischief he hasn't been able to express for years. Decades.]

[He sidles up close to his brother and unfolds the paper, reading the poem aloud before offering a suggestion.]

I would say music is the key. I've heard the occasional melody when traversing the forest.

I was pursuing one such melody when... well...

[He leans against Clive.]

[ Yes, and Clive is in no great hurry to tell his brother that he's probably... maybe? Dead? It's impossible to say at this point, nor does it matter to him all that much in the moment. He's with Joshua again--that's the important part.

When the younger Rosfield leans against the elder, Clive extends his arm to embrace Joshua about his shoulders. It's the sort of casual, affectionate touch that he shares with very few people; only Joshua and Jill, really. And Torgal, of course, for he surely must count as well.

The poem is a mystery, though. Clive looks it over, then looks back over at Joshua. ]

I'd say that your voice is the one better-suited to song between the two of ours. Why not give it a try?

[Joshua’s shoulders take easily to the weight of Clive’s arm, armor and all, and he remains close there—even if it means his brother has an unmatched view of the discomfort slowly settling on his features.]

[At first, he delighted in how he was eye-level with Clive. Now, he’s starting to see some of the drawbacks.]

[Joshua finds it difficult to meet his brother’s eye.]

I appreciate the compliment, Clive, but mayhap you should use this opportunity to practice.

You have my full support.

[Looks like the younger Rosfield is trying to weasel his way out of singing in front of his brother.]

What's this, now? You always had the sweetest voice when we were young. I can't imagine that's changed much. Besides, my poor singing isn't for want of practice; I've no natural inclination. I couldn't carry a tune if it were handed to me on a platter.

[ That's not entirely true but his voice is made for drunken sea shanties sung in taverns over flagons of ale--in other words, he's far too sober to attempt singing it now, and there isn't a tavern in sight.

Giving Joshua's shoulders another affectionate squeeze, Clive can't entirely hide the grin curling in the corners of his mouth. ]

There's no need to be shy when it's only the two of us.

[Clive grins, and Joshua’s gaze narrows. His lips press into a thin line as myriad thoughts pass through his mind, most of them following the train of “Yes, when we were young” and “I know what you are doing”. The line parts with full intent to share those thoughts.]

[Instead, it all amounts into a defeated sigh. Despite his brief stint of angry words and lofty declarations back home, the truth is that it’s difficult for Joshua to refuse Clive’s requests. Equal parts admiration and the bonds of duty were far too entrenched in his very being to fully eschew. His shoulders sag, and the fabric draping from his elbows nearly brush against the ground as a consequence of his gesture.]

All right.

[Uuuuggghhhhhh.]

[Joshua flicks the paper so that it remains open between his palm and thumb. He takes a few moments, internalizing the melody and preparing to match its key.]

[Then it dawns on him. It really has been a long time since he’s had a chance to sing. He’s hummed to himself plenty of times, usually to help keep himself awake in the throes of his research, or murmured a tune or two under his breath, but no opportunity to truly exercise his voice ever presented itself, stifled either by the need for secrecy or outright rejection from his battered lungs.]

[The first few notes are rough. Between his deepened voice and lack of practice, pitch eludes him.]

[Joshua stops, takes another breath to quell his frustration and reset his voice, then tries again. This time, although not approaching a masterpiece, he manages to tap into experience and training long thought lost.]

”In twilight's glow, memories unfold,
A flute's sweet melody, a tale retold.
The past, it echoes with laughter and tears,
In music we find our graces and fears.

[ Clive knows it's a little mean to make Joshua sing when he himself is perfectly capable of doing so, but he hadn't been joking about being bad at it. Just because one is capable doesn't make it a good idea. Still, he'll find some way to make it up to Joshua another time.

At any rate, Joshua has nothing to be embarrassed about--to Clive, his voice is as sweet as an angel's, and more welcome than an angel's to boot. He'd thought he would never hear his brother speak again, much less sing; to say this is music to his ears is no exaggeration.

Beyond that, the song has the intended effect (though Clive hadn't exactly been prepared for what that effect is) and a sequence of musical notes pops into existence, floating in the air and seemingly leading them deeper into the forest. Clive squints a little at the notes, then points in the direction they seem to be headed. ]

Do we... follow the music?

[Joshua will remember this.]

[To be fair to Clive, that moment of catharsis, one where he could indulge in an avocation he didn't dare touch for so long, was easily worth the initial unease. Plus, it's not as though Joshua was in the company of anyone who would be cruel enough to drop a snide remark or a callous barb. Not his big brother.]

[There's a saying that there are three things one should never make fun of: the way someone laughs, the way someone dances, or the way someone sings. These are the most pure expressions of human joy, and to diminish them is to diminish the person and ensure they never share their joy.]

[If that's the case, then surely the opposite is true, as well. At least, that's how Joshua feels when he catches the hint of Clive's unspoken praise. His heart swells, and he considers the very real possibility of maybe singing again.]

[But that can wait. They have a trail to follow.]

I suppose so.

[He sighs.]

I would feel better continuing forward if I had my magicks available. Unfortunately, I've only basic healing at my disposal.

[A pause, then he adds.]

Apologies, I should clarify. Outside of the forest, my abilities are relatively intact. However, they seem to have all but disappeared, albeit temporarily.

I can explain more when you are ready. Until then, we thankfully have your sword.

[ Yes yes, Clive is sure that Joshua's revenge will be swift and brutal. Punch him again, baby brother, just don't break your hands on his chiseled jaw.

But seriously, even if Joshua's voice was hoarse and off-key, Clive would still love to hear it. He went for so many years thinking his brother would never have the opportunity to grow into a man who could laugh or dance or sing; the fact that he can do any of those things now--that he is alive to do them--brings him more joy than he could ever easily express.

How brow does furrow slightly, however, at Joshua's comment about powers, the explanation leaving him with more questions than he had when they started. Joshua is right, though--there will be time to better understand his situation at a later time. ]

My sword is at your disposal, as ever. I am still your Shield. Nothing will change that, least of all finding ourselves in a realm of dreams.

[ That being the case, Clive takes the lead, ready to draw his blade at a moment's notice if anything threatens Joshua's safety.

... That doesn't mean they can't talk, though. ]

Has someone been making sure you eat your vegetables?

[ Yes, he knows he's pushing his luck, okay? ]

[Chalk it up to their brotherly bond, but Joshua can't maintain an iota of annoyance when it comes to Clive. Everyday squabbles and their resolutions were nothing but fond memories during the better part of his life. Memories that hid pangs of yearning amid the warmth of nostalgia, but they would also drive him forward. Uncover the mystery of Ultima so that he may help prevent calamity--but, most importantly, so that he could protect his dear brother.]

[The very same brother who he obediently files behind upon his declaration. Once again, he's stepped into a comfortable place. This is where he belongs, where he was meant to be. The heir to Rosaria's broken throne protected by his stalwart Shield.]

[He chortles cheerfully.]

And so, our charming prince and his brave knight traverse through an enchanted forest together in the wake of magical notes leading to a treasure unknown.

Such is our fairytale.

[However, there's very little happy carryover from Joshua's whimsical commentary and his response to that question.]

[Really, dude?]

No, and I am quite content in keeping it that way.

[Clive.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ once upon a fairytale }

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject