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

“From what I have learned in my travels, the outside world isn’t as scary as they may be. Sure there are plenty of dangers and unsavory people out to take advantage of others but it is also full of amazing wonders and great people. Towns and cities that are just majestic, luscious flora beyond one’s imagination, lovely animals that go on merrily with their lives. And most folks are generally kind and friendly, willing to lend a hand and more than happy to befriend each other. As long as you can stick with the right people, you should be in good company and have nothing to fear for.”

"How... do you know who the right people are?" he asked, bursting with questions and curiosity but trying not to scare her into leaving. This all sounded so wonderful.

“Simple. If they happen to be selfless, kind and willing to help anyone without asking in return, that means that they’re practically of a good nature. Not to mention being very understanding to the troubles one has in their mind. They won’t be too pushy or nagging all the time and will try to lend a hand.”

"So... I should never ask for help if I want to be a good person?" Lesson learned. He... he could do that.

“Well I do think when it comes to finding some advice or help, asking is a good idea. Sometimes you stumble upon a problem that you have no idea of solving and someone could try to help you out in how to overcome them. Just not expecting to get paid with anything grand in return for helping another person out is what I’m actually talking about.”

"Oh... I don't think I could help anyone anyway. I'm not really good for much except looking good..."

“I don’t think that you’re that useless to begin. I’m pretty sure that there are other things that you can do. Do you have any other hobbies or skills you can do? I have a feeling that you’re way more talented than just being a good looking guy.”

"I read books..." he said with a shrug.

“A-ha! Maybe you can make for a great librarian or teacher. I think that every library and school in the world would be looking for someone who is as smart and knowledgable as you are. Someone who knows their way with books and can ensure that they’re in their best shape and possibly catalogue them with an impressive efficiency. Or even better, impart their wisdom onto others so they can learn so much more.”

"I... don't know what some of those things are," he admitted.

“So you have never stepped into a library or a school before? Well allow me to tell you all about them. Libraries are these buildings where people can read and borrow books. Meanwhile schools are places where everyone gets to learn many things and meet new possible friends. Some can be big while others are on the smaller side. But they are amazing places of learning and everyday can be a lot different and won’t get very boring and there are often lessons to take from.”

As she continues to speak to him, she is also juggling trying to locate the jar she has been meaning to track down. Whoever has set Adrien up on this tower sure did a clever job hiding the memories jar that it is going to be tough for her to find it on the first try.

"Oh! I have some books here! Did you want to borrow one? I've read them all already." Many many times.

“Oh yes! I would love to borrow at least one or even ten. That would be very wonderful, getting to share in the book reading.”

"Alright," he said. He waved to his book case. "Take all you want. I'll just shift things around so he doesn't see that anything is missing."

“Oh gee, thanks. I will be careful in not damaging them while I look through the bookcase.”

So Isabela goes to check out the books on the bookcase to see what kinds of books and topics she would be interested. As she scans each and every book available, she might have seen a glimpse of a jar and something resembling swirling lights among the book spines. Could it be the jar she is looking for to save Adrien out of this mess?

Or maybe not. Maybe Isa is having an over reactive imagination right now and she needs to just borrow some books and maybe go off on her merry way.

But not wanting to leave no clue unturned and just of caution, she does inspect the bookcase a couple of times as she picks out a couple of books: mostly on plants, botany, and horticulture but also on art, adventure stories, cooking and survival skills. Not too unusual in her book selection at all, not at all.

Sadly she wouldn't find any books so interesting as that as most of them were higher mathematics, fashion design, and art history. Also books on how to make, well... perfect practiced poses and hold them for hours on end.

But she might find behind some of the modeling how to books the glimmer of what might well be one of the jars.

Well, the book selection may seem to be very lacking to put it mildly (besides advance math and art history) but as she takes a good on the modeling section, the glimmer from one of the jars soon takes up a good amount of her attention.

Isabela begins to take out some of the books in there and process to spot one of the jars, glimmering against the bookcase shelf. Alright she spotted a memory jar. She wastes no time taking the jar out of there before putting back the books back and grabbing some math and art books. Now the question is where are the other jars at?

"What is that?" he asked, confused, looking at what she pulled out after rearranging his books.

Uh oh, now how she is going to explain this jar to him? Should she lie about it? Should she be honest about why is she holding a jar? Isabela’s heart is pounding so fast that she could have fainted right there. But she is trying not to panic as she attempts to explain it to him in a way that doesn’t get them to have a freak out.

“Oh… This thing here,” she begins her speech as she shows it to Adrien, “I found this, um, interesting all knowing jar of knowledge among the bookshelves. Here, try opening it. Maybe it contains great knowledge of the outside world and you could be a lot smarter than before.”

"All... knowing jar... of knowledge...?" That seemed... weird. But then, she was from the outside, maybe she knew more than he did?

"I've gone through those books so many times... maybe it was meant for you, not me?"

“Oh no, that is not for me. I think that this jar is for you, young man,” Isabela politely tells him as she once again tries to let him to open the jar, “Just try to twist the lid open and the jar itself shall pass onto you all the wisdom it has to offer. This is a once in a lifetime chance to be the smartest person of the world, so go ahead and try opening it for yourself.”

He considered it somewhat quizzically. "I'm.... not sure I want to," he said, finally, sitting on the edge of his bed.

“Come on, there is nothing wrong with checking out the jar’s vast wisdom. After all, who said curiosity always gets the best of a cat? - Oops!” Isabela keeps on pestering him to open the jar without being super suspicious when she unknowingly trips on her feet and accidentally breaks the jar upon it meeting the floor.

Oh dear, she did messed up, didn’t she? Either way, Isabela tries to make it look less odd and try to stay calm before she loses her sanity and not look too suspicious. Nothing strange with having the jar meeting the floor at all.

"But maybe ignorance is bliss, maybe there are some things that I don't want to k..." but then she was falling. He dashed forward to try and catch her. Sadly he wasn't fast enough. Before he could catch even himself, the memories hit him and it stunned him so much that he hit the floor as well.

The memory flooded him.

He fell to the floor gasping with the intensity of it. "What... what was that?" he whispered?

“I, um… I honestly wish that I could explain the, um, whole… Uhhhh, I just got clumsy and accidentally dropped that jar onto the floor. I didn’t mean to startle you with that so much,” she mumbles her words as she tries to make a good apology despite her early very persistent attempts a while back.

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