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

[IT'S COMING, she has to build up to it if it's meant to be true love's kiss!!!]

Grandmother, please, we have to go!

[But she will lean down and press a kiss to the top of Melody's head right between her ears, and she pulls back, looking down at the dog expectantly...

...

....

With no change except for the ears that are now turned forward.]

Really? After all that?

[The boys whine again, but hearing it Melody's little bum wiggles.

...Aha...

With a grin, Eustace looks over at them.]

This must be a serious curse. Perhaps a few more "princes" are needed. And perhaps even a "princess"?

[It's Bri who hops up to the task first, shoving herself past Valo and Idris the moment Eustace implies a kiss from a princess. She knows exactly what she is, and the little sparkly blue dress speaks to it as she waddles across the bed to where Melody lies, her tongue now hanging out of her mouth.]

Go on.

[Tifa snorts under her breath at the look that Bri gives Melody, and she moves to the other side so that she can properly boop her nose against her, licking her gently against the side of her face and nudging her with a soft whine.

She looks so discouraged.]

It's okay. We're getting there.

[He gives Bri an affectionate rub of the ears before he looks at the boys who seem to be less enthused. Well, Idris is. Valo is a little embarrassed, apparently.]

Come on now. You do this all the time.

[But it's different!!!!

But okay, Valo will step up first, whining a little as he gives Melody a little boop and a lick. There is a definite wag of Melody's tail, and...maybe a little more of a reaction??? But then Idris comes grumbling in to roughly boop and lick her. Wake up, cousin!!]

Idris, be nice.

[The corgi whines at her and plops back down on the bed with his bone.

But there's a sudden movement from Melody—a loud thump, thump thump of her tail, a little boof, and her eyes slowly start to open as she looks in Valo's direction first.]

Melody! [She turns to Tifa, responding to the sound of her voice, but not the name.] I mean, grandmother...! You're awake!

[Now to Eustace, or rather, her stare zoning in on that bone in his hand.....]

[So is he the wolf or the hunter right now for this grandmother? Though clearly she doesn't care because bone—

A wry chuckle as he waves it.]

Now, now, grandmother. Before you have this... You might like it better with some special sauce.

[He then moves the jar over closer to her.]

How about opening it so you can eat with it?

[Slowly, she lifts her head to look at the jar, moving sluggishly as she does. She's either really sleepy, or she's leaning into the role of elderly grandmother a little too much. Or both—

She whines at Eustace. But how???]

Try putting it down over there. See if we can get her to knock it over herself.

[A motion to the small side table as she scoots along the bed to move the lamp aside to make room.]

[Eustace nods and puts the jar on the table. Melody still doesn't look convinced, but Eustace waving the bone is enough to have her ready herself and POUNCE the jar, sending the jar falling to the floor and shattering to pieces.

The other dogs yelp in surprise, but Eustace watches with narrowed eyes at the smoke that quickly engulfs Melody, causing her to stiffen just as he had before.]

Melody—!

[Tifa sees it coming before it happens, but by the time she tries to stop the leap, it's too late. Along with the jar, the lamp wobbles and then clatters to the floor as well, the ruckus enough to have Bri leaping down from the bed to hide and bark from the other side.

Well, at least that did the trick, and Tifa is already sliding off the bed and onto her knees to be there when Melody finally comes to, as she brushes some of the smoke aside with her hand.

And when it thins out, the corgi tilts her head in confusion at both Tifa and Eustace, looking like she's just seen a thousand stars fly by.

...

....]

Do you remember us?

[There's still another moment before she turns her head.

...Cousins...? Grandpa? Grandma...?

Hearing her voice, Eustace lets out a sigh of relief as Melody barks and tries to jump up into his arms as he kneels down to her, the other dogs now quickly joining in while staying away from the glass]

It worked, she recognizes us.

Oh, thank god. Welcome back.

[Tifa's whole body deflates with relief, and she almost sinks right to the floor in her exhaustion, and when Melody gives her another confused tilt of her head, she can't help the breathy laughter that escapes her.

She starts to push herself back up to her feet, brushing aside the glass and groaning when the weight shifts to her other leg.]

Let's not stick around, though. We should get moving.

[Melody whines. But the bone!!!]

You have time for the bone.

[And a careful look at Tifa.]

Wouldn't hurt to see if we can't find another jar, but do you even remember the way out of this place?

No, but...

[Now she looks a little unsure of herself despite her urgency.]

If we just follow the path out of the forest, we should be able to find our way, right? Maybe see if the dogs can lead us?

[A small sigh and his own look of uncertainty.]

The forest... Is confusing in purpose. It changes to make people lost. But the dogs may have a better chance.

Yeah. I figured. And I know that we shouldn't rush things, but...

[Tifa steps closer to Eustace, a hand reaching out to wrap around the arm that holds Melody.]

... I don't want it to happen again. So, let's find another jar and secure our way out... Let's go home.

[She looks around at the other dogs.]

Think you guys have one last search in you?

[Eustace just quietly smiles.]

I know. I want to go home, too.

[The dogs bark in agreement, and now that Melody has some of that bone she's more amenable in going.]

How about you all look outside the house again and I'll scout ahead, see if I can figure out a way from where we are first.

I'll stay here and keep looking for another spare jar for Melody. There's gotta be another, since we found one for you.

[She glances around the house, her hand gently squeezing Eustace's arm first before she gives Melody a pat on the head.]

You guys let me know if you find anything.

[They all nod and Eustace will lean in and give Tifa a soft kiss.]

I'll be back soon.

[And with that quiet promise he gathers the other dogs to follow him outside before they split up, the dogs searching hard to find the jar while Eustace walks further out towards the outskirts. Although it's tempting, he doesn't venture into the forest itself, knowing that would be more dangerous if he did, and instead tries to follow the treeline to see how far it goes before needing to turn back.]

[At least in here, she knows she's safer from anything outside. Her leg is feeling a little better than it had been before, so that's a plus, but she'd rather not have to deal with whatever is lurking in the trees if she can help it. So, she starts searching the house again, high and low, for another one of those jars for Melody. Sure, they've checked nearly every crevice, but maybe they missed something?

Not to mention, she has to clean up her mess—don't want to leave that for the next person.

But it will be the barking outside that grabs her attention. Melody, herself, from the sounds of it, and Tifa goes to the door where she spots her digging in the dirt near the door.]

I think she found something?

[A jar? Stuck in the dirt?]

Someone come help her dig it out.

[Eustace will traveled farther than intended when he finally reaches a small stream, and he remembers how Tifa told him that she and the dogs had crossed a bridge over... If they followed it back, would it lead them to the same bridge? Though which direction is another question, and if this was even the right one. In the meantime, he stares at his own reflection, finally really seeing himself for the first time since he's "awakened," and he can't help but frown at his attire and that tail that peeks out behind them.

But then he feels as if the reflection starts to flicker and change, as if to reflect the wolf personality that's currently possessing him, a dark smirk forming the water, and he quickly steps back with a shake of his head. Briefly he assesses himself, but...he still feels normal. Still feels together. But will it last?

Only the sound of distant barking disrupts the anxiety that had started to ripple through him, and upon hearing it he hastens back towards the cabin, only to stop when he stares at the shadows of the trees. He can feel that instinct to use them, use the shadows to travel... It would be faster, but it would be a risk?

...

In the end he decides to risk it, knowing time is of the essence, and it will be right when the dogs have joined together to dig the jar that Eustace will step out of the shadows of the cabin, right behind Tifa.]

Did they find something?

[His voice suddenly behind her startles her so much that she nearly stumbles, every instinct and ounce of adrenaline she had left kicking in in that singular moment it takes for her to whirl around. Her fingers have tightened into fists, but she very quickly loosens them at her side with a sigh.]

Yeah... They did.

[Her eyes search him for a moment, checking him over, before she's turning her attention back to the dogs where Idris and Valo are helping Melody dig up the jar.

And she doesn't realize how tense she is now until she speaks again, her voice clipped and sharp.]

Another one. So... we should be good.

[He's taken aback by her reaction, but when he takes that moment to think about it—it made sense and he could only look at her with apologetic chagrin before turning his attention to where the dogs almost have it out.]

...I found a stream north of here. I don't know if it's the same one that would lead to the one that you crossed over, but we can at least follow it.

[She does feel a little bad about it, especially when she sees the look that he gives her, but she tries to brush it off easily as she goes back inside the house to fetch Eustace's other jar, leaving him to pick up the one that Melody had found.]

I doubt it, but we should follow it anyway. It's gotta lead somewhere, yeah? These woods have to come to an end eventually, and all streams empty out.

[The brief moment they're apart both helps and...makes him feel a little worse as he can only think how she's going to remain on edge around him until this is over. Stupid shitty curse—

But he'll help get the jar out, picking it up and brushing it off before holding it as he looks up when she returns.]

It'll at least give us something tangible to follow instead of wandering in some random direction.

[His eyes then move to her leg.]

...Will you be able to walk?

[With the jar clutched in one hand...

...

She sees the way he's looking at her, and she reaches her free one out to take his, lacing their fingers together tight.]

Now I will.

[Tifa flashes him her own small, apologetic smile before she addresses him and the dogs.]

Let's all stick together, okay? Absolutely no wandering off.

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