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

[Gina thinks the same thing.]

A love story? ...'Course it always comes down to things like stories an' dreams 'round 'ere, but does it gotta be one about love? I dunno any stories 'bout that kinda rubbish.

... I don't believe this. What do cats and romance have in common?! Why would that work! Are you sure this is true?

[ The crow gives a small defensive "caw!" in response. ]

[Gina scratches at her head uncertainly.]

It don't me sense at all, yeah. I figured cats could care less about that sort o' thing. But this place is full of things that don't make sense, yeah? If it's from the Dream Board, it's got to be for real.

Then we're truly in trouble... I've never been in a romantic relationship, much less a sweet or tragic one.

[ However, she does pause, and tilts her head. ]

... Though during my time at the Creme Republic, I did overhear something similar, I suppose... a child's story about gem mermaids...

...Yeah?

[She glances towards the cookie curiously.]

'Ow did it go? If you remember it well enough, maybe it'll do the trick...

It was indeed a sad ending. From what I can recall, gem mermaids were secretive creatures who never interfered with anyone on land. But one gentle gem mermaid saved a Cookie from drowning, and they became very close. As a promise of their affection, she gave him her most precious treasure... a priceless oyster pearl.

However, the Cookie was a greedy soul, and instead of valuing what he gave her, he sold the pearl, and broke her heart.

[A sad ending? Why would anyone even want to tell a story like that with a sad ending?? Still, Gina listens, fascinated by the concept of 'gem mermaids'. She then gets outspoken at that last part.]

Wot?! Why'd 'e go an' do all that for?? I can get wantin' money an' all, but she practically gave 'im 'er 'eart with that gift, she did!!

Perhaps the sadness is the point... it is a tale for children, after all. There are no such things as gem mermaids.

[ actually - well, that's neither here nor there. ]

It was probably meant as a warning to be careful who you give your heart to. Just because someone's smile seems as sweet as sugar, doesn't mean they can't be selfishly sour underneath.

No way! There's gotta be gem mermaids for real! [She protests.] Sometin' that pretty's just gotta exist! After all, I've turned into some kind mermaid before in this place! All I need's some gems on top o' that an' we can call it a day!

[A beat.]

Wait, ain't there more to the story?

[ Considering they all turned into candy and unicorns not too long ago, she supposes Gina has a slight point... ]

No, that's about it. I could try to make it more detailed for the cat, but that's all I heard during my time at the Creme Republic. I was there to find my allies and save them from dangerous enemies, so I didn't really have time to ask about the story.

[Surely this cookie has to be introduced to Mermay!

In any case, Gina frowns thoughtfully.]

...Sorry, that's kind of a crummy endin'. But it's all we got. Now let's find that kitten and tell it the story as best as we can!

[Toby beckons them with a bark. It seems he's caught onto the cat!]

Yes! Onward! And we must make this a grand storytelling for the ages!

[ She might be taking this a bit too seriously... But she dashes forward, and now is joined by all five of her Raisin Crows! ]

Right! Leave some spaces for me. I ain't good at tellin' stories, but I'll do wot I can to ask for it!

[There it is. The cat is still atop a trash can. While it will move if anyone tries to grab it, the cat seems to know that yhat they have a story to tell. So it waits patiently.]

Okay now, get it started!

[ Time to do this! Black Raisin Cookie closes her eyes, setting up a dramatic air... ]

... Once upon a time, in the vast deepness of the soda seas, there was a young gem mermaid. Every gem mermaid has a gem that's all their own, their most precious treasure, which means everything to them. And she was the kindest and most selfless of all the gem mermaids, but she was also the most curious. She wished to know more about the people on land, but she was told time and time again to be wary of those unknown beings.

But one day... all that changed when there was a mysterious ship on her seas...

[Well, time for her to start adding on! She clears her throat before she starts.]

A great big ol' ship! Full o'... full o' cookie-people. They were... throwin' a big party on the ship while passin' between countries! An' the gem mermaid was drawn close by all the commotion. She never seen or 'eard nuffin' like this before! It was a 'ole new world to 'er. She wanted to be part of it all, but... um... it's a boat. An' someone who's like a fish can't exactly get onto a ship, yeah?

[ BRC nods in approval. You're doing very well, Gina! ]

... But then the clouds began to darken, and lightning pierced the sky. A storm began to brew, and it was far more intense than any they had braved before. It caused the waves to hit hard and fast - and as the ship was tossed about, one of the Cookies onboard fell over. It was likely he'd drown beneath the harsh seas...

... But the little gem mermaid could not stand to see him suffer. So, forgoing all she'd been told, she whisked him away to shore, vowing to save his life at all costs.

Right! [She stands confident while continuing the story.]

She brought 'im there to that beach and saved 'im. Got 'im breathin' again, kept 'im warm, the works. ...An' even though they shoulda been at odds, they felt sometin'. A connection. She wanted to keep spendin' time wiv the cookie and play all kinds o' games wiv 'im.

And the young man, in turn, told her he'd never seen anyone more beautiful in his life. He told her he wished he could be with her forever... but he also knew this was impossible. He couldn't live in the sea, and she couldn't live on the land. He was a poor man, and that ship had been the only one he could afford to go on. Now that he was without coin, he'd never be able to go on to the sea again. Yet he wanted to keep this precious memory of their meeting with him always.

The gem mermaid was touched by his honeyed words, and also wanted to cherish their precious meeting. So she offered to give him her most treasure... her one and only pearl. So a part of her would be with him always.

[She pauses for a moment, some dread settling in as they near the Sad part of the story.]

....Y-yeah. She... she 'ad never felt this way about no one before. She wanted to give 'im everytin'. So she gave that to 'im. An' it was like givin' that cookie 'er own heart. After that, an' givin' each other a little peck, they... went their separate ways. It was sad, b-but it ended nicely.

[She shakes her head.]

Un-until that cookie went off a-and... 'e sold that pearl...

[ She hesitates, glancing over at Gina. The girl does realize this is just a child's fable, right? It's not real?

... Then again, the cat hasn't moved from its spot. This story seems to be real enough for the cat. She shakes her head, and begins to wrap up the tale. ]

The pearl gave the young man tremendous wealth, and he never had to worry for anything again. He could send ship after ship across the oceans without ever going on the seas himself - instead, he enjoyed his newfound success safe at home, forgetting all about the gem mermaid who had blessed him with her kindness.

And as for the little gem mermaid... when she saw ship and ship invading her waters, with no sign of the young man onboard any of them... she slowly began to understand her precious memento was lost forever, and her heart dissolved into soda sea foam. She never trusted anyone ever again, and was shamed by all the other gem mermaids for losing her special treasure. They say on the darkest days on the water, you can still hear her cries, off in the distance, of a love that was never meant to be.

[Gina's head is bowed as she listens to the rest of the story. It definitely feels sad, and it makes her heart ache. But she knows she shouldn't feel surprised. That's the kind of thing that's fueled her distrust if people... especially when it comes to a situation as intimate as this. Why should she trust someone that much and make herself do vulnerable? It won't end well. It will never end well. That's why she never pushed for something with Beat.]

...And... a-and that... That is the...

[...End? Is that really the end? She finds herself wondering, what's the way she wishes it could go?]

[She cries that out, tears in her eyes and red in the cheeks.]

N-no, that ain't it! That ain't 'ow it ends! It... it goes different!

[She feels like Naruhodo bluffing in court- but now she's writing her way to a better ending!]

[ W-what the...?! What's going on?

She blinks rapidly, her cool and calm demeanor completely thrown off. ]

Huh? ... What are you saying? ... I mean, if you're sure...?

[ Even the crows are surprised, but now they flitter around Gina, rather interested in her version of events! ]

Edited 2024-03-07 11:27 (UTC)

[Now that she's spoken her piece, she feels a little embarrassed. All eyes are on her now! She rubs at her head sheepishly.]

R-right then. Sorry about all that, but, uh... yeah. The... the real story...

[She clears her throat and pauses for a moment while trying to actually figure out what her version of the ending should be.]

So, you see, it was like wot she said just now, 'cept that then the mermaid woke up. She realized it was a nightmare! But she knew some things 'appened for sure. Like that the cooke had sold her gem, an' she didn't see 'im since then. She kept worryin' that things would turn out out like that dream she had, which was a really, really sad endin'...

[She smiles softly as she goes on.]

Until one day she 'eard that voice callin' out. An' she saw 'im, out in the middle of the sea. Turns out, that cookie used the money to buy a 'ouse wot would sail on the water, so's they could be together. ...'E... 'e said 'e was sorry for sellin' 'er treasure... but that 'e only done it so they could find new treasures together...

[Gina looks down, her cheeks heating at imagining something so corny, yet so pleasant.]

...An' - an' I think they got on nice and 'appily from then on, yeah?

[ BRC's eyes soften as Gina continues. For whatever reason, for her, this story needed to have a happy ending... and, really, why not? What was the harm?

A slow smile begins to spread across her face, and she nods in agreement, satisfied. She can only hope the cat is equally pleased. ]

... Yes. I think, from then on, they all lived happily ever after. A true love story for the ages.

{ once upon a fairytale }

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