songerein | { dream faire: part 2

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{ dream faire: part 2 - dragons }

DREAM FAIRE: PART 2 - DRAGONS

Early morning on the fourth day of the five day Dream Faire, something strange is spotted in the distant skies. At first most just think it's a large cloud or large beast flying in the distance, but as the vendors begin setting up for the day, the strange shadow has grown larger and closer. At this point there are reports from the Observatory that one of the large floating mountains usually spotted around the Outer Edge has flown towards the town at incredible speed. At first everyone is excited, thinking perhaps the mysterious residents there have come to join the fun.

Unfortunately, they would only be half right.

At around noon it's all thrown into chaos when the mountain appears directly overhead and thunderous roars rip through the skies as an army of dragons fly off from the mountain and descend down into the town. Though large, those familiar with dragons will notice that they are smaller and sleeker in stature, closer to the size of large wyverns. Without warning they start tearing apart the glittering jewels and gold that decorate the city—but others ignore the treasure to search frantically instead, overturning every wagon, crate, and smashing through doors and windows.

As chaos erupts throughout town, some fae and others who can understand the dragons make a startling revelation. The dragons are not here to just mindlessly destroy the town—they are there to take back their treasure and find their missing clutch of dragon eggs.

This is the second part of our double anniversary event! ICly, this log covers the fourth day of the Faire with the festival portion contained in its own log here. Part one is still active, so don't feel as if you cannot participate in the other log! For general information and to ask any questions, refer to the Dream Notes.

I. DRAGONS

As the word spreads, efforts to fight and repel the dragons lessen and attempts to help take their place. However, with lack of proper communication and the word of the truth spreading slowly, misunderstandings will crop up. Costume effects are still active, so some may find what they're wearing useful in handling the different problems around town.

A. Treasure Salvage. One of the main purposes the dragons are invading the town is to rip up the various gold, jewels, and other priceless relics and artifacts that had been used to decorate the town. Given their enraged state of mind, they're not being very "delicate" about it, but at the very least they haven't started to completely raze the town—yet. Many people will take up arms to try and defend their homes, but those who have heard what's going on can try to help convince people and remove the treasure to return to the dragons. Of course, there are others who are taking advantage of the chaos to try and steal some of that treasure for themselves. If they get caught, however, it won't bode well…

B. Dragon Minions. As a result of all the hostile emotions and desires for revenge, the dragons' magic seeps out via dreamotion and it's so strong that it's capable of influencing those around them. Those who are unable to withstand the overbearing weight of the dragons' rage will become corrupted and side with the dragons. There are no physical changes, just the mindset has changed to follow the orders of the dragons. Since it's not a deliberate spell, one only needs to knock out the "corrupted" individual to break them from the dragon's influence. However, they should be taken away as they will remain susceptible for some time and could be "corrupted" again.

C. Dragon Fights. It's inevitable that there would be those fighting against the dragons, and with many from different worlds and backgrounds with them, seasoned fighters are the first to grab their weapons to fight them off. Given the destructive nature of the dragons, self defense is needed as they get overzealous, especially when the various elemental flames go off. But attempts should still be made to try and calm and work with the dragons instead—and convincing the dragon fighters might be just as hard.

D. Dragon Eggs. What was once thought as ornament eggs, dragon eggs can be spotted rolling around through the streets and other random places such as trees, rooftops, wagons. While some are intact, others are starting to hatch with their little wings and legs poking out and helping their movement. And then there are the ones who have hatched completely. They are small and adorable, but they are a handful. They have very little control over their dreamotion and their powers, which specialize in one of the following elements: fire, ice, lightning, wind, earth, water. The hatchlings are trying to find some tasty jewels to eat, but they are also afraid of what's going on. Returning them to an older dragon will alleviate a lot of the stress from both young and old dragons, and giving a few small jewels or other treasures to the hatchling will help calm them down.

D. Catch Those Leprechauns! Some may recall that it was the leprechauns who not only endorsed and provided much of the treasure, but had asked for assistance in collecting treasure in a strange dreamscape (see Prompt Section III). It soon gets out that they are the ones who stole from the dragons and the dragons are quite keen to exact proper justice on them. Help chase and find these hiding thieves to bring them to the dragons, which will help appease them. Just beware, those leprechauns have magic of their own, such as hiding, deception magic, and conjuring illusions, and will also try to frame anyone as the culprits. They will also try to bribe others to help them, their ability to deceive and charm others is quite effective.

II. DRAGONNAPPED

While the dragons are focused on retrieving their treasure and missing dragon eggs, some dragons can't help old habits—kidnapping royalty. Whether it's a prince or princess, a few will take anyone who happens to catch their personal interest. It could be because of personality, appearance, or even scent. Once they find their special prize, the dragon will fly them away to their lair, which could be a cave high in the mountains or an old castle tower. Now there's a rescue mission on top of defending the town.

A. Escape Attempts. Not everyone wants to stay a damsel in distress. Although the dragons will leave them in their lairs, no one is bound and is free to move around.

Mirror Mirror. There are a lot of magic mirrors that connect between the various lairs and castles, allowing everyone to communicate through them freely. They might even happen to see fellow captives through the mirror's glass. Tall, wall length mirrors act as doorways, allowing individuals to travel from one area to the other. The catch is once it's used, it can't be used again. But it's better to work together than try and figure out a way alone, especially with everything like a huge maze.
Enemies Everywhere. Beware of other creatures that lurk nearby, from fire salamanders to various imps and large bats. Castles will have stone gargoyles that will come to life while the caves will have stone golems instead. They can all be defeated, but some may find themselves lacking suitable weapons. Fortunately, there is an abundance of magical artifacts and weapons at their disposal. While a bejeweled golden sword may be more decorative and actually useless, it's better than nothing! The creatures can also be distracted by throwing treasure their way. Bonus appearance: those corrupted by the dragons could appear here to guard.
Flying Steeds. The real question is, once they get out of the cave or castle, how do they get down and off the flying mountain? There are a few giant eagles and pegasus around, but taming or coaxing them won't be easy. It's not that they are wild in nature—in fact they are quite intelligent and will understand whatever is being said. They just don't want to get mixed up in whatever trouble is going on—these are dragons after all. Only those with the bravest of hearts will be able to approach…but feeding them their favorite foods could also work. Catch some rabbits or gather some golden apples and maybe they'll help out.

B. Brave Knights. For those determined to save the dragonnapped victims, help has arrived just in time! Appearing seemingly out of nowhere, several hot air balloons that look similar to the ones from Oz descend from the skies, a few flying monkeys waving in greeting. In addition, giant owls wearing gondolas fly in, ready to carry anyone who needs a lift. Giant Butterflies have also been enlisted, so there's no shortage of transportation up to the dragons' flying mountain. But it won't be easy. No matter which method they use, the winds around the floating mountain are strong and stormy, making it difficult to navigate through the skies. Having a partner to help use dreamotion to create more stable winds will help. Once there, the now dubbed "knights" have the following options in trying to save the dragonnapped.

Operation Stealth. Sneak in through a hidden entranceway. Those who are inside the lair or castle can help guide them through, especially if they toss down a mirror to help communicate. Unfortunately they can't cheat and use one of the mirrors from the outside, but once inside they can try to use the mirrors to make it out.
Persuasion. Should they encounter the dragon, it won't be happy. However, it might be possible to persuade the dragon that they're all on the same side and that everything was a mistake. Surely it would be better to have a dragon as an ally than an enemy?
Bribery. Maybe just talking isn't enough. If the knight happened to bring any treasure, dragon eggs, or a hatchling with them, this would be a great time to offer it up and score some big points.
Boss Fight. When all else fails and the dragon is determined to keep their prize, the only way out is to fight. However, although the dragon has the home field advantage, it's also its greatest weakness. Use of the treasure and artifacts will inflict more damage, and threatening to break anything has a strong chance to weaken the dragon until they give up. Bonus appearance: those corrupted by the dragons could appear here instead or to assist the dragon.

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"Well, I am a mom." She admitted with a half shrug. "If someone stole my kids, I too would be very much in a 'set fire on everything and make everyone suffer' phase, and it wouldn't exactly be easy to turn that off."

Boy, wasn't that helpful? But she got side-tracked by curiosity, tilting her head as she saw the box. "Say, what's in there, anyway?"

"Something that I won from those leprechauns back when they had those weird puzzle rooms. I still haven't managed to get it open..."

He drummed his fingers across the top of it in thought. Her words about a mother's anger echoed in his ears, and a few pieces started snapping together within his mind.

"...but I think I might know what's inside it. It'll just be a matter of actually trying to get the dragon to hear me out."

Yellow eyes turned back her way.

"You know. Not opening the negotiations with flame breath."

"Considering the Leprechauns started this mess, you may be onto something here." To quote a famous Wonderland visitor, Curiouser and curiouser! Della stroked her beak, kind of wishing to crack open the box herself but having enough restraint to, well, not do that.

"You know, if you really wanna go full-tilt on this knight deal, why not let me join you as your 'squire'?" She walked to his side, nudging his ribs a bit with her elbow. "Normally I'm the take-charge and full steam ahead type, but I can tell when a little role reversal is needed. We go together, but I'll walk ahead, announcing you and all that jazz, and make sure you're not BBQ'd when you get inside. Gives you a bit of time to think of a speech."

Ordinarily, he'd even have invited her to try. Nothing he did to it had actually made it open up, and he had tried everything from crowbars and hacksaws to searching for hidden latches or secret phrases. But if his guess was correct, and its contents were delivered anything short of completely unscathed, there was no way they were getting out of here without someone dying.

"...and if the pomp and circumstance has them think they're dealing with someone really important instead of some thief or thug, they might just hear us out." Moxxie glanced aside in thought, albeit nodding agreeably. "That is a good idea."

"...but just in case, you do know how to fight, right? I mean, this is going to be dangerous no matter how we do it.

And I don't want to be the one to have to explain it to your next-of-kin if it all goes wrong."

That got a laugh out of her, but not a mocking one, at least!

"Buddy, I've been fighting monsters since I was a duckling! Stuff like this is my family's bread and butter. I could probably go in there and fight that thing with my eyes closed, hands tied behind my back, and missing my metal leg."

Della smiled confidently, clearly meaning every word. "... But I won't. Promise."

She then turned on her heel, looking him over, trying to think of what exactly to say to the big beastie. "I do need a name to tell the big guy, though. So, quick intro? I'm Della Duck. And you are?"

If anything, he seemed almost impressed by the casual, confident battle fervor she had on display-- especially since Della appeared to be capable of knowing when not to give in to it.

"Nice to meet you, Della. I'm Moxxie, of Immediate--"

That sure was a conspicuous coughing fit he broke into there.

"...well, right now, I'm The Black Knight. Feel free to go with that if it's too hard to make 'Moxxie' sound... preeminent."

... Immediate? Immediate what? Boy, the questions were just continuing to pile up! He'd better prepare himself for a lengthy Q&A session in the future!

"Moxxie the Black Knight." Della repeated, then thumped her chest twice. "All right, I think I've got it! Don't you worry - I will be your ultimate hype-woman! Professional wrestling announcers ain't got nothin' on me! We got this!" With a very hearty slap on his shoulder, Della strutted forward into the deep, dark entrance of the cave.

Maybe it was time to practice some of that dreamotion stuff too. For all the grief Della had given Moxxie (and others) about being overly theatrical... this duck would prove she could be full of ham.

Deep within the cave, Della paused... she couldn't quite see any big scaly beasties, but she could hear deep breathing, and feel angry eyes upon her. She cracked her knuckles... time to get this show on the road.

A deep, deep breath...

"OH, MOST ESTEEMED AND NOBLE LORDS OF THE SKY!" Della bellowed, one hand to her chest, the other one making a grand, sweeping gesture. "My lord humbly requests your most dignified audience! He who has traveled across shaky skies and terrible terrain, he who has braved the fiercest winds and harshest flames, he who has pledged his life to only the most honorable quests - he comes forth now, wishing to right the wrongs and seek a future for which all man and dragon can live together in harmony!"

It was only gunna get worse from there.

"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, guys, gals, and non-binary pals, I give you the one, and only! The man, the myth, the legend himself! Raise your claws, show him some love, he's making his one-night-only appearance!"

Della then turned around, and turned her finger guns into literal ones - using dreamotion energy to fire off small white fireworks at the entrance.

"MMMMMMOXIIIEEEEE, THE BLAAAAAAACK KNIIIIIIIIIIGHT!"

Well, that was... an introduction, alright. One that opened with all the grace and zeal of a court herald and finished with the hammy flair of a circus barker. And he was pretty sure he even heard a little pro wrestler announcer by the end, there. Once said introductions were made, the esteemed Black Knight appeared more... dumbstruck than he did valorous.

And so, too, did the massive eyes that appeared out of the dark with a red, reptilian gleam, first casting their puzzled- if not somewhat irritable- stare down towards Della, before shifting over to the 'Knight' in question.

Moxxie cleared his throat.

The chamber rumbled with a derisive snort.

Moxxie cleared his throat, again, slightly more assertively, and began his parley.

"Now... uh... hear this, dread wrym, and listen well; we know now your outrage, the deception you had suffered at the hands of those thieving leprech--"

The rest of his sentence was forced back into his throat by a consuming wave of fire breath, pouring over the beleaguered and unfortunate knight.

Seconds later, when the flames had cleared, he stood exactly as he did before, looking unscathed but for some scorches on his armor, less incinerated and more irritated.

"...Would you let me finish, please?" he uttered, as frustrated as it was polite.

The dragon stared down at the black knight, its imposing majesty sinking into a look of abject confusion. And so it turned to his waterfowl 'herald', as if demanding an explanation.

The dragon wasn't the only one wanting an explanation! When the fire came, Della had yelped, and wanted to pull Moxxie out of the way, but the distance between them was too great! Oh, no! Was she going to have to explain this to his next of kin?!

... Except he was fine.

Della blinked slowly, her raised arms lowering. Huh. This was new. He... probably could have mentioned that earlier! But she managed to keep all her questions down for now, feeling the dragon's eyes on her. She did earn the Junior Woodchuck Improve badge when she was a duckling!

"Behold!" Della gestured with jazz hands, leaning on one knee. "His thirst for justice cannot be quenched, so no sacred flames can burn his noble soul! Nothing could ever stop his honorable quest! Glory be to Moxxie!"

He pat out whatever flames lingered on his armor and tabard, quietly muttering to himself about needing to have it fixed or 'finding that goat kid again' in a way that didn't quite match up to his herald's esteem.

After one last unceremonious sigh, he continued, holding out the box.

"...said quest being, the return of what was taken."

He proffered the sealed box.

"Which I suspect may be your egg."

Suddenly, the two of them had the dragon's undivided attention. It glared down to the box. It locked its gaze with Moxxie, as if in challenge... or at least in expectation. The imposing stare of a beast waiting to be impressed.

"...um."

He gave another quick- and futile- attempt at opening the sealed box.

"Thing is, rgh it's... ngh-! uh..."

And a pleading look over towards Della. Maybe a storied adventurer would be a be a better fit for opening it, after all. Or maybe something built to hide an egg just needed a mother's touch.

Della wasn't surprised that the secret box held the egg - what else would the dragons want? But... she was surprised that Moxxie couldn't open it. Boy, talk about bad timing! And she didn't have any skeleton keys or bobby pins to try and jimmy it open!

"Hoo boy." She muttered under her breath, scooting over to try and look the box over. "Guess we're playing this right down to the wire, huh?" She ran her hand over the box, trying to think.

... Hm. Magic wasn't really her forte, but maybe this was what that "dreamotion" stuff was meant for?

With a breath, she closed her eyes, and began to softly hum a lullaby she always wanted to sing to her own children. As she sang, she pushed as much emotion as she could through her fingers, through the box - of a mother's love, a mother's warmth, and a mother's promise to keep her children safe.

The moment the singing began, the dragon's focus shifted. Stranger still, despite still carrying faint notes of its standing confusion, its gaze almost seemed to... soften. Perhaps a gesture like this carried more of that weight they needed; Moxxie briefly mused whether or not the Leprechauns, too might have come with olive branch extended when they stole the treasure in the first place...

Well, odds were they never did something like this. Not with Della's self-evident sincerity, anyway. And maybe if they had, then the outer layer of that sealed box would have fallen apart at its seams a little sooner as whatever was inside it seemed to stir--

--and, thankfully, his estimation seemed to be on-point: what remained in their hands was a conspicuously-large egg.

The dragon leered, loomed, but-- for the moment-- appeared mollified, or at least deterred from its prior violence. And even more miraculously, it remained so as the egg was cautiously set down atop the heap.

"...do you think we need to give one last speech or something," the imp whispered, "Or would that be overkill?"

"Maybe this time, discretion is the better part of valor." Della whispered right back. "In other words, let's not push our luck and go while the going's good." She hadn't known that her partner was fire-proof, or that the box needed a mother's love to open, and she didn't think she could come up with any more surprises!

Instead, she just bowed softly and slowly, and began to back up, hoping Moxxie was in tow. Now they could probably sneak around and try to rescue some of the kidnapped victims, without any dragons wanting an afternoon snack. Still, she did manage to give her new friend a pair of thumbs-up. Way to go, Black Knight!

The dragon's massive, clawed hand slowly pulled the egg into the shadows as the beast withdrew itself, and if anything Moxxie was visibly relieved to have that 'treasure' no longer be his enigma to puzzle out.

At that point, he had to agree; counting themselves as fortunate and making their break was probably the safest and most graceful way they could exit their current... situation. And once he spied Della dipping back inside for the captives, he flashed a nod of agreement her way. That probably put him as 'lookout'. And that, in turn, meant he'd need to try and keep eye on the dragon in the darker recesses of the cave.

He took one single step deeper before the dragon's luminous stare peered out from the shadows once again. A look that perfectly made one question why he was fool enough to still be there.

The stare was returned with a cordial smile- if uneasy- and a subtle glance aside to his comrade. Moxxie at least had the dragon's focus now; hopefully this duck could be more fleet-footed than flat-footed.

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{ dream faire: part 2 - dragons }

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