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🎃 Everyone hail to the pumpkin song 🎵
Nothing but frights in these festive nights!
It's noticeable — the coming autumn nights are growing dimmer, bats start circling the skies more often, and a lone wolf howling at every occasion towards the moon's appearance. An inexplicable sense of dread permeates your being as you begin to feel the hairs rise on your skin, and you might just chalk it up to only the chilly fall wind passing by. But some take to believing these are signs pointing that the night of Halloween is drawing near. A chance for ghouls and goblins to come out and play, and maybe earn a sweet treat or two along the way.
Somewhere around the outskirts of a small country town, its people gather around to set up shop and open their annual Halloween Fair to all. While they mostly bring in people from neighboring towns to join in the celebration, unbeknownst to the townsfolk their event is about to get a little more festive with the sudden influx of visitors from beyond their borders. And perhaps from beyond the grave as well...?
This is just an open RP post with a sandbox-like setting. While there's some scenarios premade for your roleplaying needs, you can mess around with it as much or as little as you want. Feel free to use it for voicetesting, create cross-canon shenanigans, or develop a ship even further. You can carry the story over to your musebox if you'd like too. And you can re-use this post as many times as you'd like (until it hits the comment limit.) So bring your blorbos, your originals, your AUs, your friends and your friends' friends along for the fun!
- Comment with your character's name and series in the subject.
- Follow it up with a starter, and state your preferences too.
- Label any warnings when necessary.
- Reply to other characters!
- Most importantly, just don't worry and have fun!
Arriving at the fairgrounds, you'll find the whole place heavily decorated with an assortment of spooky-themed ornaments: glowing jack o' lanterns, paper bats lined on garlands, plastic skeletons in comical poses, bedsheet ghosts hanging on a wire, a statue of a famous movie monster or two looming over you menacingly, and so much more. The sounds of whimsical theremins and sinister pipe organs could be heard playing in the background. All the stalls have even installed fake cobwebs to match the vibe. And some of the townsfolk, even the visitors too, have taken to dressing up in costumes for the festivities.
It's fortunate that the fair doesn't charge you for admission. So like a ghost hovering and lost, you can haunt around the grounds as much as you please. Grab a candy apple, try your luck at a pie-eating contest, get lost in the cornfield maze, or maybe go trick-or-treating while you're at it. There's plenty of things to do for you to have a scary good time!
While it isn't required for everyone to wear a costume for the event, you're definitely encouraged to dress up while exploring the fairgrounds. Besides, wouldn't it be more fun to stalk the grounds as the grim reaper? And you get bonus discounts from food stalls for being in the spirit of it all!
If you were convinced enough to do so, you were then directed to the costume rental store under a large tent and try something from there. No doubt the store has a wide array of costumes in all shapes and sizes from the mundane, to the grotesque, to the avant-garde. You can dress up as a doctor, a zombie, a legally distinct superhero, or even a giant avocado. There's even matching costumes for you and your partner to wear together for laughs. There's no rhyme or reason why some of these costumes are made really, this is all in good fun.
But once you've made your choice, you start to gain this strange unconscious urge to act out as the costume you're wearing. And soon enough your mind is absent, instead fully entranced to play the role as long as the mask stays on. Though not all hope is lost — if you have enough willpower you can break its spell. Having a friend pull it off is a viable option as well, but it won't be easy with how firmly it's stuck to you.
Like any town fair, there's no shortage of finding entertainment while you're here. After all, the spooky season isn't only just for scares. Sometimes a little laughter and enjoyment goes a long way. If you're feeling competitive, how about you try your hand at Apple Bobbing, or the Pie-Eating Contest if you have a big enough appetite to do it. The Halloween-flavored Ring Toss game is also a good one, where you toss rings around some witch hat shaped pegs instead. Or how about some Haunted BoOoOoOwling!! and find out if you can strike all ten ghostly pins in one go. Winning in any of these games will reward you with an assortment of prizes (plush toys, novelty items, a huge pumpkin, etc.), so it's definitely worth playing them!
But if you prefer something more chill, then show your creativity and carve a funny face onto a pumpkin of your choice over at the Pumpkin Carving corner. Your creation will be featured alongside many others like an art piece in an exhibit. You'll also be rewarded if your pumpkin is the most presentable of the bunch, so you don't get to leave empty-handed.
A couple of rides are built for the Halloween Fair as well. The Drop Tower is a favorite amongst fair-goers looking for thrills, Or the simpler Ferris Wheel if you'd like to view the whole fairground and the cornfields surrounding it from above. They even have a huge Inflatable Bouncy Haunted Mansion for everyone to hop into and embrace their inner child. Yes, it even comes with a ballpit!
There's likely more that hasn't been mentioned — as there are other horror-themed games and rides you can try. So at least nothing will keep you bored while being here.
If you aren't up for gaming excitement, or you just happen to have more to spare in your wallet, then there's plenty of shops to check out in the Fairground Market.
Much of them sell local produce from this town and neighboring communities — apples, pears, carrots, corn, the like. And each of them come with their own unique varieties too. But you can also grab a cup of Bewitching Pumpkin Spice Latte or a slice of Monstrous Pumpkin Pie, or even some Scarily Spicy Pumpkin Glazed Donuts if you're feeling peckish. Of course, if you're not the biggest gourd gourmet, there's always the usual savory fairground treats like corndogs and burgers you can find along the way. Food carts are pretty much scattered everywhere, so you are spoiled for choice.
Food isn't the only thing the fair has to offer. There's an assortment of trinkets and oddities on sale if you look around, it's not too dissimilar to that of a flea market. There's a tent selling secondhand clothing of the retro and modern kind, while another showcases curios from around the world if you fancy spotting some forgotten family treasure or a cursed relic from a distant past. You'll even find a stall featuring spellbooks and occult paraphernalia that would spark curiosity. There is just about everything here you can find in the market area. Why not buy a rare novelty or two to take home with as something to remember by?
It might not sound like the most thrilling attraction in the fair, but getting lost in a corn maze can be quite harrowing especially for the directionally-challenged out there. At every side all you'll find is towering cornstalks that spread as far as your eye could see. Corn here, corn there, corn everywhere. You'd soon realize how hard it is to discern which way to go when the maze is surrounded by... well, maize. Luckily there are a few distinguishing markers that will help you on your way such as a jack-o'lantern or a scarecrow, just as long as you keep your feet on the trail that's laid out for you to traverse.
While normally it's best played during the day, no one is stopping you from going through the maze at the darkest hours of the night however. Unless you have a flashlight with you, it isn't the most ideal way to do it. But whether you were dared to or just felt like it, the pathways still remain open for you to explore.
"Be careful." the owner eyes over you, "Strange things lurk in the night y'know."
According to the owner, apparently there's a local legend about creatures that skulk in the fields at night, preying at the undiscerning and appear to them in the form of their worst fears imaginable. You may get a sense that the old farmer is just trying to persuade you to think it over and visit the maze while the sun is back up, however the choice to pursue this challenge is ultimately left up to you.
Maybe you're the type who just wanted to get away from all of that cheer, and decided to make your hauntings around somewhere quiet, and perhaps a little bit somber. The town's cemetery is a little ways off from the fairgrounds, but it's worth visiting if you're not in the mood to partake in the festivities. Surely you'll find yourself at peace just like those who lay six feet under your feet.
However the dead think otherwise.
Much to your surprise (or not), there is in fact a morbidly grand party being held here of all places. Apparitions of lives once lived are seen dancing, communing, rough-housing, having a ball of a time. Some of them are playing music, using their precious strings and brass they carried with them to the afterlife. It's like death never bothered them. Or perhaps the unbridled joy of having to be on this plane of existence again is just a distraction from that. Who's to say? What is certain is that they seem unbothered by your presence. In fact, one of them even welcomes and persuades you to join in the fun.
It's not too crowded though, some take to floating above instead to leave more space for others. Many of them are former townsfolk who knew each other from long ago. Old friends, distant relatives, long lost rivals, all reunite in the spirit of the season. There's no buffet table around if you're looking for something to snack on, but there had been some weeks-old food lying on graves that only the spirits could enjoy. A few would be willing to share, but there's no guarantee they would be edible.
And then something catches your eye — a certain someone you know who shouldn't be around, or alive at all. Maybe that frightens you, whether they be friend or foe, to see them among the lively dead. And to what reason they have for being here, you'll just have to be brave and ask.
If the fair itself is too much for you and prefer something that's a tad simpler, then there's always the old classic Halloween tradition of putting on a fun costume, knocking on strangers' doors, and hope for some sugary delights to fall in your hands as a reward. And if they don't hand the sweets over... Well that's where the "Trick" comes in, doesn't it?
Although don't expect everyone offering candy as you stand on their doorstep. Some neighbors would rather treat visitors with granola bars, bags of chips, jars of play-doh, toys, or even packs of Pokémon cards instead. Maybe a kindly old woman offers you some freshly-baked muffins or chocolate chip cookies just for stopping by. If it's not to your liking, you better take your complaints to them. Though they'll probably slam their doors in your face as a result.
Then again, you don't always have to follow tradition to a T. You could loiter around in the streets, watch the Halloween parade and marvel at everyone's costumes, or gaze at whatever stars you can make out in the inky darkness above you. Maybe you can disregard the "Treat" part entirely and jump into the "Trick" at full-force — pulling pranks like a livestreamer causing mayhem around the neighborhood. You might get arrested for that, but it's worth it if you're in it for the thrill of it all, or just enjoy being a complete jackass during this night of all frights.
If you're not feeling any of these prompts, or have some other ideas in mind, then go wild!
You can mix and match scenarios or come up with your own. Swap roles where you play the villain and your partner would be the hero or the other way around. You can even expand the setting with new locations, or AU it up and rebuild it into your own version of the setting if you'd like. There's no limits to what your imagination can create. It's free real estate here, and the world is your oyster!
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(Did Pooka just found a new friend? The little dog thinks so as he cheerfully barks at Agnès. Anya takes the moment to step away from her snack viewing to face Agnès and answer her question.
The Grand Duchess’ costume isn’t so royal compared to her lineage though, being a scarecrow for the night. Hardly anyone in the festival so far has hardly told her that they knew of her status as an Imperial Grand Duchess, which has been a blessing to her. Most of the Romanovs have either gone into hiding or died by this point.)
Oh hi! This little dog’s name is Pooka. He is very friendly and he would love to be anyone’s friend, including you.
Arf, arf, arf!
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Agnès set her lattee on the booth she had stopped by with a brief, apologetic smile to the seller, then knelt carefully, looking up at Anya for permission. ]
May I? [ She wasn't about to go petting other people's dogs without permission. As for little Pooka, he would probably sniff out other dog scents as well as cats. ]
If I had known it was all right to bring pets, I would have brought Alphonse along with me. He would have liked making another little dog friend too. And of course I'm happy to make friends both on his behalf and mine. [ She giggled a little, turning her attention from Anya to Pooka. ]
Hello Pooka, my name is Agnès. [ And back to his owner. ] May I ask your name, miss?
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You have a dog as well? That is wonderful. I would have loved to meet him too if he is here too. I was quite surprised to learn that this fair allows people to bring their pets too as long as they behave themselves. Maybe some other time perhaps?
(Anya happily watches as she sees Agnès petting Pooka, the little dog is soaking up the attention the young lady is giving onto him.
The last Grand Duchess gives an approving nod in return. She knows very well how protective Pooka is of her and how he can tell if a person they encounter is wholly good like Agnès or truly bad like Rasputin. Dogs are quite perceptive animals.
Now she isn’t sure if she should give out her real name in public especially most of people wouldn’t know that she is still alive (just a lucky few like Dmitri, Vlad, her Grandmama and Sophie) but she decides to come clean in regards to her imperial identity.)
My name? Well, I do have a real name myself: It’s Anastasia Romanova but I would like to be called Anya personally.
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He's very sweet! I'm sure Alphonse would get along well with him. The next time I come I will definitely bring Alphonse with me. He's just like Pooka -- as far as loving attention, I mean!
[ She reclaimed her latte, so she didn't forget it, though the 'I have a real name' was a bit curious, she didn't question it. She had another name too, though didn't volunteer it. ]
That's a very pretty name! It's a pleasure, Anya. [ Actually, both Anastasia and Anya were pretty names. ]
Have you been enjoying the festival?
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(Pooka happily barks as she gives him plenty of chin scritches and pets. He is quite satisfied with them as Agnès turns her attention to Anya.)
Yes, he is definitely quite a sweetheart. I bet that he and Alphonse would be great friends whenever they get to meet each other someday. The fact that they are both affectionate makes it even sweeter.
It’s also a pleasure to meet you as well, Agnès. Oh yes, I have been enjoying the festival so far. I didn’t get to visit festivals like this before growing up, so it is my first time going to one myself.
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I find it's much more enjoyable to participate in events like this when there's someone else to talk to. [ Who isn't in Authority(tm). ]
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It would make enjoying the festival even more fun when people get along with each other.
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[ She's not sure how long Anya's already been at the festival, but since they both had drinks, she probably wasn't hungry yet. ]
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Bark, bark!
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[ She glanced down at Pooka, giggling. ]
Do you want to participate with the game as well, Pooka? [ He'd be a dynamo at fetching any wayward rings, but would he bring them back without chewing on them? ]
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If I had to guess, it would fairly land on average as long as I’m able to get my focus on the target. I can still do best in aiming the rings onto the poles as efficiently as well.
(Anya’s being way too modest for her own good. She did crushed Rasputin’s reliquary long ago, though she hasn’t mentioned it to Agnès. And maybe it was for the best. Don’t want to give some folks trauma on what should be a fun holiday)
Now I don’t know if a dog has ever played ring toss before, but I do think with his experience in chasing after stuff, Pooka can try to attempt regardless.
Will you be able to win a game of ring toss without chewing the rings, Pooka? I think that you would make for a great fetcher for this game.
Bark!
(Pooka happily barks as he pants to the two women. He will resist the urge to chew on the rings. There are still people who would play with those rings at the fair too.)
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Ahaha, oh no, not at all, I was just lucky...but thank you! [ She'll do her best cheering Anya on too - although Pooka will probably have her beat. ]
I think you'll do fine! [ So saying she gestured for Anya to follow as she started over towards the ring toss game. ]
I've never heard of a dog playing ring toss - but I bet Pooka is clever enough to figure it out, aren't you Pooka? [ Surely those people won't mind chewed on rings and puppy slobber! ]
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(Pooka has the confidence that he could pull this off. No one so far has seen a dog attempting to play ring toss before, but the little dog is determined to make history somehow.
Anya lets out a be used chuckle at her dog as they are talking towards the ring toss area and picks up the first set of rings before getting to talk to Agnés again.)
Oh gee. Thanks for the support. I’m going to try my best and play to the best of my ability.
Hehehe. Pooka certainly thinks that he can impress the people in the fair by becoming the first dog to play ring toss. He is pretty clever enough to do it. Right, Pooka?
Arf!
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Good luck! You can do it!
[ She glanced at Pooka at Anya's comment, and laughed a little. ]
Well, between you and I, I do think it would be very impressive if he was able to become the first dog to play ring toss, especially if he managed to win a game. [ She stepped back to both give Anya room and give Pooka some attention too. ]
Are you feeling up to becoming a canine celebrity, Pooka?
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Oh yes, that is very possible: I can see that happening and people being both amazed and stunned over the fact a dog can do well in ring toss as much as humans do.
Bark, bark!
(Pooka barks with confidence as his master prepares to take the ring toss game. After getting the rings from the person running it, Anya is determined to make the most and best of her turn. She begins it by sending her first ring as swift as she could, eyes fixated on the pole.
She watches on curiously as the ring manages to land on the pole. Feeling confident, she proceeds to do the same with the second ring and it manages to stick the landing as well. So far so good for Anya right now. Many folks who are watching are so also cheering her on with Agnès and Pooka.)
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Oh wow, that's great Anya! It took me a few tries to get the hang of it myself, but it looks like you're a natural. [ Oh wow, she was even getting a crowd. Hopefully she didn't get nervous with so many people watching! ]
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Bark, bark! Bark!
(Pooka continues to bark happily as he cheers on for his master and the people chime in. Anya has her third ring aimed at the pole and it manages to get through the pole. The fourth one came, and she accidentally out too much wrist action and it missed a bit.
It’s fine, it is just a slip up. Anya is now down to two rings and she has to get the last two right all while enjoying herself and the game.)
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[ Oops a miss. Go get it Pooka! ]
Be careful you don't hurt your wrist - you might sprain it if you throw too hard.
[ Although spraining her wrist doing this game was highly unlikely, it didn't hurt to keep that kind of thing in mind. She was careful to keep quiet when Anya was about to throw, so as not to distract her from her aim. ]
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(Pooka dutifully races over to where the fallen ring landed and picks it up with his mouth before returning to Anya and letting her to take it before rejoining Agnès.)
Ah, okay. Thank you for the advice. I have to be a bit more careful not to injury my wrist while tossing as not to sprain it.
(Anya speaks with a nod before returning to toss the ring that Pooka retrieved, this time with a bit more caution and more careful aim. Luckily this time, the ring is able to fly onto the pole as intended and the game booth operator didn’t mind the whole dogs returning to fallen rings to their owners part.
Now with the last two rings, she is more mindful with how she flicks her wrist and proceeds to get them all in the pile in no time. No sprained wrist here, just sheer determination in motion.)
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Good boy Pooka!
[ She gave the best boy ear scritches, and then turned back to watch Anya nail the last two rings. ]
Amazing! That was so well done, Anya. [ She clapped politely, almost dropping her own plush, but managed to resecure it. ]
You're definitely going to be able to get one of the big prizes for landing so many rings. Which one are you going to choose?
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Bark, bark!
(The little dog happily lets the praise sink in from both women. Anya lets out an amused giggle, knowing how much it means for her dog.)
Ho boy, there is plenty of choices to choose from. But I think that I have eyes on that fluffy looking pale blue bear with a cool looking purple top hat. This one attracts my attention the most.
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Don't get jealous though, Pooka, I'm sure Anya thinks you're much more cuddly. [ She patted Pooka on the head again, grinning before turning to Anya. ]
Is there anywhere else you wanted to go?
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Yes, I agree. He sure does look dapper with that hat really well. What do you think, Pooka? Isn’t he quite a special bear? Just remember not to feel tempted to make him your next chew toy please.
Bark, bark!
Well, what do you know? Even Pooka likes him as well. Though I think that Pooka wants to try his paw on the ring toss game now. He has probably waited for a long while to get here.
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Hrm...he has waited an awful long time like a good boy. [ She flagged down the gentleman running the booth. ]
Pardon me sir, could my friend let her dog try the ring toss game?
"Eh? I mean.. it's.. kinda... not..meant for- ah screw it, yeah go ahead missy, let's see what your dog can do!"
[ He handed five of the lighter rings that the children tended to use, over to Anya to give Pooka, while Agnès gave the man an appreciative smile. ]
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(Anya walks over to Pooka and hands him the children’s rings so he can participate in the game. Plenty of people are also playing the game too, though they are both surprised and amused by the idea of a dog wanting to play ring toss at the same time as them.)
Bark, bark!
Okay, Pooka. Are you ready to toss the rings into the pole?
Bark! Bark, bark, bark!
Alright then. Time to give it a shoot, boy!
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