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.

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[It's almost a shame that Jill's already hugging him so tightly; when his tears land warm and wet upon her hair, she wishes to pull him closer but can't without feeling ridiculous. Instead, she rests her forehead against his chest, so close to where Ultima once resided, and lets reality flow up through her like a sunrise heralding a new dawn.

At the last of his words, she pulls away – albeit with some degree of reluctance – and reaches up once more to clear away any lingering tears. He may be bigger than her now, but she's still the big sister and she won't let him forget that. Even if she does look to him for guidance now.]

Have you any advice on where I should start?

[It isn't that she's unsure of how to exist on her own terms; living such a life has been what she's wanted most ever since she was a girl. Whether as royals or as Dominants, they'd all learned far too young that their paths had been chosen for them, and it had always rankled Jill the most. Rather, it's that whatever path he's chosen has clearly done wonders for him, and it won't hurt to walk in similar ways until she knows enough about this place to start striking out on her own.]

[Joshua smiles, bowing his head to help Jill wipe away any remnants of tears. Her fingers along his cheeks, comfortable in their familiarity, bring forth memories of their shared childhood, when even the gloomiest days, rife with the whispers of political turmoil, shone brightly as long as he had his siblings.]

[Losing the rest of his childhood to the events of Phoenix Gate hurt. Losing that time with his family, unsure if he'd ever see them again, hurt even more. He'll never take these overt displays of love and affection for granted ever again.]

[He presses a light kiss to Jill's crown before answering her question.]

Acclimation is a difficult time. There is much to take in, and it is a process to accustom oneself to the unique nature of this realm.

[Joshua offers his arm to Jill again so they can continue along.]

It was barely more than half a sennight following my arrival that there was incident that required the use of dreamotion. It was a challenge, but one that provided a goal on which I could focus.

Travel around Reverein enough, and you will find your focus, as well. Your time is mine, and I will dedicate as much of at as you need to help.

[Gladly, Jill accepts his arm again, moving into step beside him at a somewhat quicker pace as Torgal bounds off ahead. She thinks about calling him back but ultimately doesn't; he's been glued to her side since they arrived, and even if it was nice having him so near to her, watching him return to his usual form makes her much happier.

When Joshua finishes speaking, she doesn't respond right away. In the chaos of everything else, she's neglected to recognise an important change in the very air between them. Where once she could sense his aether, even from great distances, now there's nothing. It feels... strange. Like something else she'll have to acclimate to over time.

More than that, though, it brings forth the question of her own abilities and whether she still has access to them, in some form, with Shiva's dormancy, or if they've faded like the magic in their world. But rather than addressing that directly, she opts for more roundabout route.]

What is dreamotion, exactly?

[She's heard the spiel, of course, but only Joshua would know how to explain it in the context of aether.

A pause, then a follow-up that feels a bit more pressing.]

And how was it required?

[He nods. Both questions are completely valid, and he can understand that wisp of urgency. Joshua pauses to consider his words and how best to succinctly tackle his explanation.]

Dreamotion is the equivalent to magic in this realm. Just as Valisthea required aether as its source for magic, Songerein requires emotion as a source for dreamotion. The nature of your emotion dictates the outcome of your spell. However, with enough practice or with natural affinity, one can utilize dreamotion on a whim. The way one’s dreamotion manifests tends to mirror one’s powers in their respective waking world, provided they have such powers.

[As an example, he calls forth a small orb of fire with his free hand, beckoning it to follow them as they continue to walk. Joshua doesn’t bother dismissing it, enjoying the warmth and extra light it provides.]

While we are our own sources for our magicks, we do not have to trade our lives for its use. I’ve admittedly felt fatigue after its extended use, but it isn’t a common side effect from what I’ve noticed. It could very well be a remnant of my physical body’s limitations manifested here.

[Joshua doesn’t sound upset about it. His tone is measured in a way that denotes true acceptance.]

When I first arrived, I had to use dreamotion to assist in apprehending some thieves. Immediately after is when the events I mentioned regarding Orkili occurred. Both fire and healing were difficult back then, but my stamina has increased. I’ve even managed to semi-prime, and although doing so left me entirely drained, recovery was as simple as a full night’s sleep.

[He conveniently leaves out some of the more concerning details of said semi-priming, but, again, those are stories for later.]

[It doesn't really matter how upset Joshua does or doesn't come across as being; Jill's worry for him reasserts itself all the same. It's a reflex, still, but one that should abate with time.

She won't dishonour his steadiness by pressing the matter, though – at least not in the context of her concern. Instead, she holds out her free hand as if to follow suit in attempting to summon her ice, but... decides better of it, in the end. Though he's handed her an easy excuse for why her own magicks might not rise from her palm, she doesn't want to rely upon maybes.

That issue will also have to wait until later.

What she does do, ultimately, is release her hold on his arm so she take his hand instead. Such a simple gesture, and one they'd shared so often as children, but one that never loses its own magic of support and comfort, presence and understanding, togetherness and mutuality.]

[Questions storm her mind again, but she falls so easily into focusing on Joshua that only one really crystallises:]

It must have felt so very strange the first time, having your spells dictated by your emotions. Especially after they've been a part of you for so long.

[Joshua readily takes Jill's hand, gripping it securely with every iota of that childhood comfort he can muster. He noticed her movement before and how it mirrored his brief spell, and part of him expected her to attempt to follow through, but he also understands there are myriad reasons why Jill wouldn't call forth her magic, ranging from unfamiliarity with dreamotion to her own trepidation with the misfortune her skills with aether have brought her.]

[Whatever the reason is, all Joshua needs to convey is that he will be there for her, no matter her decision.]

It was a unique hurdle, and it makes magic use tiring in its own way. Feeling so much at once isn't... I'm not used to it.

[The Undying, although not entirely devoid of emotion (he can certainly recall happiness, sadness, and frustration with his found kin), valued a more taciturn environment. They fostered calm and expected it of their new leader, and Joshua learned the worth of a cool head when making decisions that could, and sometimes would have to, lead to the death of an agent for the greater good.]

[Ruthless calculus required a subdued heart.]

Giving oneself to that deluge often leaves the spirit drenched in the storm of its own depth.

[For twelve years, Jill used her powers while detached from them, mentally at first and emotionally not long after. And while that's changed during her time as an outlaw, she still maintains some degree of separation, feeling the brunt of everything on her own time, in her own space, alone and far away from the atrocities she's witnessed and the battles she's fought.

In many ways, she'd argue that this separation is what keeps her steady and strong in the face of almost insurmountable odds. To be more emotive while using magic is antithetical to damned near everything she knows. But so is cowering away from things that are difficult. So is giving up before she begins. She still has no intention of testing anything out in Joshua's company, but she can use his words to steel herself against what feels like an inevitability, should she still have command of her powers.]

I'm not used to it either. When I fought, I always tried to feel as little as I could.

[And she's never really had the chance to use her powers outside of the context of battle and war, subterfuge and crime, so her mind doesn't even twitch towards other directions.]

Or perhaps it's rather that I didn't want to think too hard about what we had to do to accomplish what was necessary. It's not quite like that here, is it?

[Joshua doesn’t have the full picture of Jill’s history outside of her relegation to a war machine by The Iron Kingdom, but those horrendous scraps that he’s pulled together are enough of a backdrop help him fully understand the reasoning for her magical disconnect.]

[It’s also enough to trigger a quiet bubbling of anger for what was done to his sister. He tamps it down, lest it show on his face and aggravate the darkness he carries.]

[There was also the matter of following Cid and Clive and their mission, but that was of her own volition. Those accomplishments she mentioned, and the degree of separation associated with them, were a pursuit of her own free will—or so he rations. As wide reaching as his network was, the Undying could only make objective observations. They could not scry into hearts.]

Not quite, no.

It’s very difficult not to think about what must needs be done. Not merely because of the nature of dreamotion.

[Joshua gestures up ahead towards the line of treehouses blurring into the edge of the city.]

But because it is natural to care about one’s home.

I know. It's always difficult.

[But that isn't want she meant, and so she pauses to figure out how to put it to words before deciding against saying anything. Does it really matter that her thoughts still swirl around how much damage they had to cause to plant their tiny seeds of hope? Is now really the time to talk about how much they'd had to choose to sacrifice – and how little they were able to save – in their own world?

Besides, in the end, that's her experience, not his. Of course his mind went elsewhere.

It's true that they know precious little about each other now, at least beyond what they've remembered about the nature of their hearts. All they really have are the scaffoldings of nostalgic patterns upon which to rebuild perception and understanding alike. That's not inherently bad, though; not when there are so few left who knew the kind of people they were before the world changed who they are. The familiarity they share is different and refreshing and nice for still bearing the rhythms of better times.

She can only hope that any changes they go through here are more for the better than not; she can only put her faith in the light Joshua shines on this land even as he speaks of its shadows.

It's in that spirit that Jill's eyes light up a bit when he gestures towards the treehouses. There's a sense of whimsy about them, of course. Something fantastical about the sight that leaves her feeling girlish. A bit of humour at the thought of the Phoenix finding his perch, too. Warmth as he introduces it as home.]

Treehouses? [And though she doesn't quite sound girlish, there is a brightness to her voice that wasn't there before, a hint of too-rare laughter.] Which one is yours?

Mine is a bit deeper in the forest. Not too far.

[He speaks with a surge of fondness for the place. To Joshua, it's a refuge, an escape from the unique struggles that Songerein possesses. A sanctuary where he could open a book and allow his mind to wander in its pages until sleep (eventually) claimed him. Recently, he'd even invited friends over on a regular basis, and their presence helped with the loneliness that had been creeping throughout his thoughts.]

[But all that will change now. Jill and Torgal are here, and they can begin to craft memories anew. Joshua isn't alone from his world anymore, and he doesn't have to surround himself with reminders.]

[He suddenly straightens with realization.]

Oh!

I'd nearly forgotten.

Before we enter my house, I should bring you around to the back. There's someone I'd like for you to meet.

[It's nice, she thinks, to hear Joshua speak with such fondness towards the home he's established here. The little things like this are what continue to knead away at the tension she's been carrying since she arrived, and she finds herself simply feeling happy that he's developed a sense of belonging deep enough to bubble over into his tone.]

Someone?

[Immediately, Jill's curiosity is piqued. Given the way Joshua speaks of them she can't imagine it's a person, but that only widens the possibilities. Perfectly content to keep it a surprise, she doesn't ask him anything, just says:]

I'd love to meet them.

[All it takes is that genuine show of interest for Joshua’s eyes to widen and his lips to erupt in a wide smile. With how his entire countenance glows, it’s as if, for just a few moments, that little ten-year-old boy has returned.]

Follow me.

[Not that Jill has much choice. Joshua’s grip tightens as he laces his fingers between hers. All the better to make sure that their hands don’t separate as he quickens his pace to a happy trot. He looks back over his shoulder periodically to check in on his sister as he leads her and Torgal along the forest path, mindful of any stray roots, towards a large tree with a distinctively red flair.]

[That ten-year-old boy is accompanied by his twelve-year-old sister as they move deeper into the forest and the wonderment about her swells. Every time he checks on her, she's looking in a different direction, taking in everything like she can scarcely believe it's real. It's only when she notices him guiding her towards one treehouse in particular that her focus stops flitting about like a thirsty hummingbird and lands in one place.]

You live here?

[Of course he does, and of course she understands that. The inflection at the end isn't a questioning one, but rather something rooted in amazement. It's just so charming. So rich in character from the red flair, to the moss and the flowers, the way the top of the tree perfectly crowns the house it holds at its heart. The perfect home for an adventurer prince.]

It suits you.

Aye.

[Joshua takes a moment to admire his home, something he realizes he hasn't done in a long while. It's changed over time, as many things in Songerein are won't to do. More so, those changes were less conscious decisions and more adaptations the treehouse made itself. Undoubtedly, it was in reaction to something about Joshua--the Rosarian colors and seemingly deliberate construction hint at that much--but he's unsure as to what.]

[Regardless, he's grateful for it.]

Come this way. It's just around the back.

['It' referring to a stable that edges into view as the duo make their way around the tree's trunk]

[Inside that stable? A young chocobo that trills and trots up to them upon hearing a familiar voice, and seeing a new face.]

A chocobo?

[A baby chocobo??? Upon seeing him, Jill's delight shifts gears a bit. Not in intensity; rather, it goes from wonder to the pure joy of meeting someone that's cute beyond words. The chocobo trill and trots, and Jill makes a happy little noise and crouches down to greet him.]

What's his name? Is he friendly?

[CAN SHE PET THE CHOCOBO CHICK, JOSHUA???]

[Joshua steps aside so Jill can greet the baby 'bo properly (happy noises and all). His encouragement isn't needed for his future trusty steed to make his way over to Jill and present his yellow, fluffy head for appropriate scratching.]

[At the question, Joshua's face softens as he glances around the forest.]

"One man, however, grew tired of this life—if it could be called that—and after bidding his companions farewell, climbed a grassy knoll overlooking a forest of beech and alder."

[Finally, his gaze settles on his home.]

"Here, he gathered a pile of rubble and used it to build a humble shelter in which he spent the night.”

[With a relaxed sigh, he takes in some of that crisp winter air, perfumed with the forest's flora.]

I named him 'Alder'. Something strong and reminiscent of home.

[As Joshua speaks, Jill sinks her fingers into the bird's soft feathers, stroking at the downy fluff beneath them, careful not to ruffle any of it too much. She's rode astride many a chocobo over the past five years, but it's been nearly two decades since she's simply enjoyed the company of one. Especially one so young. There's no way she can resist indulging just a bit.]

May he grow every bit as strong as his namesake, then.

[Tall and sturdy. Firm. Determined. Steady. Everything a proper steed should be.

The story doesn't fill her with the same nostalgia as it does Joshua – Rosaria was never home for her like it was for him – but she understands its spirit, at least, and so she adds:]

I miss those years, too. They taught me that we can make it through anything, so long as we have each other.

[“So long as we have each other.”]

[And they do now, don’t they?]

[Joshua feels a warmth spread through him as Jill strokes Alder's feathers. They bend and ruffle under each delicate movement of her slender feathers, and the uptick of his lips slowly broadens. Alder seems to revel in the attention, his chirps of delight echoing through the forest.]

Once you’ve had your fill of Alder’s company we should head indoors.

[He knows the cold wouldn't bother Jill, but he's happy to wait, content to let her bask in the chocobo’s presence a little while longer.]

I’ll make tea. We can reminisce about years past, and speak about what is to come.

[No, the cold doesn't bother Jill, but the feeling of being cast adrift again very much does, and she knows she needs to be somewhere she can relax. Somewhere she belongs.

Slowly, she stops petting Alder before smoothing his feathers back in place. Tea and good company sounds perfect. Far more than she'd have expected from the night, which she thought she'd spend wandering around with Torgal until sleep forced her to find shelter for them both.]

I would love that.

[And so she rises to her feet and waits for Joshua to lead them indoors.]

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{ once upon a fairytale }

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