Fabula Rulebook

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

• Contents
• Goal of the game
• Game set-up
  • The role of the writer: Wilhelm Grimm
  • The role of the characters/players
  • The "item" cards
  • Choice of the tale
• Game Overview
  • The prologue
  • The first chapter
  • The proposals
  • The items
  • The criteria to validate the relevance of a proposal
  • The order of proposals
  • The second and third chapters
  • Selection of the 2 characters/players for the epilogue of the tale
  • Epilogue
• Variants
  • "Experienced Players" Variant
  • "Collective" Variant
• New scenarios
• Scenarios
  • The Snowmen
  • Les oiseaux
  • The Library
  • The Herald
  • The Ceremony
  • The Garden
  • The Factory
  • The Toys
  • The Mirror
  • The Magician
  • The Mill
  • The City
  • The Treasure
• Proposal examples
  • First chapter of the "Chess Game" scenario

Contents

• 54 item cards
• 48 quill markers
• 20 large sized "setting" illustrations
• 12 characters on their stands
• 1 cardboard easel
• 1 rule and scenario book
• 1 sand timer

Goal of the game

In Fabula, one of the players takes on the role of Wilhelm Grimm while the others each play one of the characters present in his mind. Will the latter succeed at helping the writer finish his story? Who will be the hero of this new fairy tale?

These questions will find an answer in this immersive game, where imagination and improvisation are kings.

Game set-up

The role of the writer: Wilhelm Grimm

Choose one of the players who will take on the role of Wilhelm Grimm, the writer, for the duration of the game. This player places the easel in front of him or her and takes the "quill" markers.

The role of Grimm is vital as that player will moderate the game and distribute points.

The role of the characters/players

The other players will each take on the role of a character from the writer's mind. Their role is to offer ideas to Wilhelm Grimm to help write his fairy tale. Each player chooses one from among the twelve available and places the corresponding figurine in front of him or her. The player will have to play the role chosen as best they can for the rest of the game.

The twelve characters are:

• the fairy
• the young dragon
• the wily merchant
• the wolf
• the leprechaun
• the prince
• the elf
• the old sage
• the princess
• the witch
• the knight
• the thief

The "item" cards

Grimm shuffles the deck of "item" cards. The Grimm player then draws randomly a number of cards equal to three times the number of characters/players. The Grimm player then draws two extra cards before placing all of them face up in the center of the table.

These cards will serve as support for the characters/players in order to submit ideas to the writer throughout the game.

Choice of the tale

Grimm chooses one of the 20 "setting" illustrations and places it on the easel facing the other players. The Grimm player then takes the "scenario" file corresponding to the chosen illustration. The illustration represents the scene where the game begins.

Game Overview

The game takes place over 5 distinct phases: the prologue, the first, second, and third chapters and finally, the epilogue of the tale.

The prologue

During this phase, Grimm reads out to the other players the paragraph titled "prologue" from the "scenario" file. It's an introduction to the game about to take place. It allows the characters/players to understand the context of the next fairy tale Wilhelm Grimm wishes to write.

The first chapter

The writer then continues by reading the paragraph titled "Chapter 1" from the "scenario" file. This paragraph gives characters/players the main idea that Grimm wants to develop in his first chapter.

The proposals

To help the writer flesh out the main idea in his first chapter, each character/player will, in turn, make a proposal. This proposal must advance the story, bring in key elements or allow the resolution of some or all of the problems in the chapter.

A proposal can be as simple as a single sentence, but it's suggested that the character/player flesh it out into a better argument in order to convince the writer of its relevance. The proposal given by the players can use the first or third person, depending on the ease of the players in portraying their character.

Note: The proposals of the players do not need to have a link between them. A player can only make ONE proposal during the first chapter.

The items

A proposal must include one of the items present in the middle of the table. Moreover, this item must be the key element of the proposal. An item with only a few stars will often be easier to use than an item with a larger amount of stars.

When the active character/player names the item, the player takes the corresponding "item" card and places it face up in front of him or her.

Once the player has finished speaking, Grimm must validate its relevance. If it's validated, Grimm places a "quill marker" on the item. Otherwise, he places none. Grimm can justify his decision to the character/player if he so wishes and can validate as many proposals as he wishes.

Note: a player can only use a single item during the first chapter. Moreover, an item which has already been used by a player may not be used by another player in order to make a proposal for the remainder of the game.

At the end of this turn, Grimm chooses the new hero of his next fairy tale by using the following criteria:

• The 2 items have been used and fit in well with the proposal of the character/player.
• The proposal of the character/player gives a good answer to the problem of the epilogue.
• The proposal of the character/player is pertinent and coherent.

Note: if a character/player uses fewer items than his or her opponent, that player automatically loses.

The criteria to validate the relevance of a proposal

To validate or not the proposal of one of the characters/players, Grimm can refer to the following criteria (these are given as guidelines):

• The item used fits in nicely with the proposal of the character/player.
• The proposal of the character/player is a good response to the problem of the chapter.
• The proposal of the character/player is relevant.

Note: a character/player cannot call into question a decision of the writer.

The order of proposals

Once Grimm has read the "chapter 1" paragraph, the character/players who wish to make a proposal raise their hand. The writer then chooses one of them to speak. If no character/player raises their hand, it's up to the writer to choose one to make a proposal. If the chosen character/player can't come up with one, the writer then hands that player a random item and gives the player no point. Once all the players have made a proposal, and thus used an item, the game moves on to chapter 2.

The second and third chapters

Play proceeds the same way for the second and third chapters as for the first. The only difference is that Grimm gives 2 "quill" markers for a validated item during the second chapter, and 3 "quill" markers for the third (and final) chapter.

Selection of the 2 characters/players for the epilogue of the tale

At the end of the 3 first chapters, each character/player counts the number of "quill" markers obtained so far. The two players who have gained the most will be able to offer Grimm an epilogue for his tale. In case of ties, the players with the most stars on his or her validated "item" cards will take part in the epilogue. In the case of a second tie, Grimm will choose from among the tied players whoever has made the strongest impression during the 3 chapters.

Once the two character/players selected for the epilogue phase, Grimm begins reading the "epilogue" paragraph of the "scenario" file.

Epilogue

Grimm reads the paragraph titled "epilogue" from the "scenario" file. This paragraph gives the character/players the main idea that Grimm wishes to develop in his epilogue. From the 2 remaining character/players, the one the farthest to the left of Grimm begins this final game phase. Grimm flips the sand timer. The character/player now has 30 seconds to offer Grimm an end to the fairy tale while including the two remaining "item" cards at the center of the table.

Once the first player has done making his proposal, it's time for the second player to make one. This player has had more time to think about his or her proposal, it's true, but on the other hand, he or she cannot use the same ideas as the first player while using the same 2 remaining "item" cards.

Variants

"Experienced Players" Variant

In this variant the character/players will come up with a common story. Each can talk whenever they want without having to raise their hand, in order to respond or build on whatever was said by another player as often as they'd like during a chapter. Each character/player is still required to make just one proposal using an "item" card for each chapter. The rest of the rules remain unchanged. A chapter always ends once each character/player has made a proposal using an "item" card. The epilogue phase remains unchanged.

"Collective" Variant

In this variant, Grimm always gives his opinion on the proposal of the character/players but gives no "quill" markers. This way all the character/players take part in the epilogue phase. The writer does not choose a hero at the end of the fairy tale.

New scenarios

Head on over to the "download" page of our website (www.libellud.com). You will have access to new scenarios in order to give new life to your game as we put them up. Don't hesitate, if you feel you have the soul of a writer, to send yours in – it'll be a pleasure for us to publish them on our site in order for them to be shared with the community.

Scenarios

The Snowmen

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the inhabitants of a little mountain town were endlessly being harassed by a horde of giant terror-sowing snowmen. The town elder, a very old man who didn't say much but whom everyone listened to, wound up breaking his silence: "The leader of the creatures persecuting us looks oddly like a child I knew in my youth. What if for some reason he hasn't grown up like the rest of us? Wouldn't that be something! That boy was acting like a tyrant with the rest of the children back then. If he's the one using his powers, I'm afraid he now wants to be the master of the city". The burgomaster then gathered a few worthy souls from around the village who, following the tracks of the snowmen arrived at the hideout of the young apprentice wizard. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can bother the young wizard in order to break the spell which allows him to animate and control the snowmen. My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Thanks to your intervention, the snowmen have stopped. The young wizard speaks to you, looking cross: "I've been trying to perfect this spell for over sixty years. Don't you have any respect for my work?" The town elder was right: this child hasn't grown up like everybody else. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you intend to discover the secret of his eternal youth. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! The wizard child has confided in you that he's never known fear! Because of that terrible problem, he can't grow up. His parents, thinking that their child was cursed, became afraid of him and abandoned him. Ever since that day, he has tried to seek revenge on the world for his fate by scaring other people. I think it's now time to help this unfortunate child learn this emotion, which will allow him to grow up like everybody else... This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. You might not believe it, but it's simply by listening to one of my tales that the wizard child has felt fear for the first time of his life. What a relief! He's now become a handsome young man. But he seems shy about going back to the village with you after having lived alone for so long! Whoever can find which job will make him the happiest of all the villagers will be the hero of this tale. »

Les oiseaux

The scenario title is printed in French in the source.

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the king heard by chance of the existence of a small town which appeared on none of the kingdom's maps. Not being able to stand the idea that anyone could escape his authority, he called an urgent meeting of his best explorers and sent them to the four corners of the country. The envoys who would find the clandestine town were given the mission to investigate when the village was found and bring the village leader back to the castle. The king intended to interrogate this rebel and bring him into the fold of his followers, by force if necessary. And so, after a long and hard trek across the country, a group of flying explorers arrived within sight of a small town which seemed to blend into the middle of the desert as the first light of dawn started to shine. They were finally within reach of their goal. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can land at the heart of the city without raising the inhabitants' suspicions. My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: The inhabitants of the city like to have fun: each week they hold a party for the joy of getting together and laughing, dancing or playing... You've now been invited to a "discussion" in the village's square. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you'll each win the villagers' trust by telling a short yet breath-taking story in turn. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! The people living here seem to have found a perfect balance between spending time working and spending time having fun. Even more surprising is that they all seem to respect each other without the need for armed people to uphold the law! I think it's now time to think about your mission and look for the leader of the village. But how are you going to find who it is when everyone's wearing the same thing: white togas? This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. I'm not going to surprise any of you when I tell you that you haven't been able to find the leader of the village: for the simple reason that there isn't one. Each person living here is, in this place, responsible for themselves and everyone else at any time. A few villagers have answered your questions openly about this, being naturally trusting of strangers: "This town has existed since the dawn of time. The inhabitants of the kingdom who have not found their place anywhere else always end up learning about its existence and come to live here quietly. This is why it's still like an island of peace off the official maps of the kingdom". Whoever can finish my story, knowing the mission given to him or her by the king, will be the hero of this tale. »

The Library

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the sun did not rise on the kingdom and it was the same for the following days. The king called upon his ministers, but none could give him any explanation. Even the greatest sages of the kingdom remained silent; their heads hung low before that phenomenon! The king flew into a black rage, fearing that his people would rise against his powerlessness. Once his fury abated somewhat, the sovereign decided to isolate himself to think. He locked himself in the most inaccessible room of the castle: an old library forgotten by all others. Anyone would've sworn that time had stopped inside. Only a librarian still gave it a hint of life. Although somewhat surprised by the visit of the king, the old sage gave an attentive ear to the king's story. He then remembered the existence of an old manuscript telling of a similar event which took place centuries before and how the sages of the time had solved that problem. But it was impossible for him to remember where he had stored that book in this storehouse of knowledge. The king therefore decided to designate a handful of people to help the old librarian. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can help the librarian find the old and precious manuscript. The kingdom's survival depends on it! My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: After long hours of searching every bookshelf, it seems you've managed to find the famous manuscript. The text mentions a strange ritual using Alozoria, but what could that be? Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you'll learn more about it and how you'll get the mysterious ingredient. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! You now have the main ingredient. I think it's now time to perform the ritual. Show me how you'll take care of business. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. Ah how mischievous the gods are! They like entertaining themselves once in a while by scaring humans. The ritual has, I'm sure, entertained them properly, but they don't seem ready to make the day return to the kingdom. Whoever can somehow manage to make the gods more willing to listen to your plea will be the hero of this tale. »

The Herald

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the king's herald made an announcement before the inhabitants of a small province town: "Hear ye! Hear ye good people! An unknown illness has struck the kingdom's inhabitants. Those infected will start to run in all directions and shout in words of an unknown language before falling into a deep sleep from which there is no waking. The kingdom's best healers have tried to stem the flow of this terrible epidemic, but they have not yet succeeded". Once the herald left his stage to go make the announcement in the next city, a group of young people gathered in the town square, having decided to try and put an end to this mysterious illness. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can learn more about the origin of this illness without becoming infected. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: A dark and threatening cloud is at the town's gates. What if it is the cause of this illness? Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you will try to protect the inhabitants of your town from this imminent danger. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! The inhabitants are saved for now. Rumors say that the first cloud appeared above the capital city, not too far from the royal palace! I think it's now time to head to the source of the illness as soon as possible in order to understand how the cloud may have formed! This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. Once you have arrived in the deserted capital, everything points to a partially destroyed alchemy laboratory from which black acrid smoke still rises. Curled up in the back of the room, the king himself sobs mournfully: "What have I done? Everything's my fault! I should've never tried to make a love potion on my own. See what's happened!" Whoever can successfully fix the king's blunder will be the hero of this tale. »

The Ceremony

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration has returned, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, in the deepest part of the forest surrounding a small city of the kingdom, a magical ritual took place on each night of the full moon. It was said that in this secret place, a powerful sorcerer was introducing people to occult practices. Each month, he attracted more and more adepts, promising the power of immortality to whoever wore a mask filled with his magic. Day after day, the little city was slowly growing emptier and to the despair of its mayor. Desperately, he decided to call upon his old friends in whom he had full confidence in order to discover the secret of this enigmatic sorcerer. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, for the first Chapter tell me how, after having discovered the location of the ceremony, you could succeed at joining the participants without getting noticed. My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Alas, one of the members of your group has been unmasked by one of the ceremony's guardians. For the second Chapter, explain to me how you could help the unfortunate escape that sticky situation. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to come up with a way to draw the sorcerer to an isolated area where you can remove his famous mask and maybe discover his secret in the process. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. I think I'll surprise you, my little friends. Behind the mask is the Prince of the kingdom. An evil witch had given it to him a few months earlier, telling him it would cure him of his fear of other people. In fact, the mask has the power to take over the mind of whoever is wearing it. The witch wanted revenge on the King who had spurned her years ago by using his son to sow chaos in the kingdom. Whoever can convince the prince that he does not need the mask to cure his fear will be the hero of this tale. »

The Garden

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my friends! Now that inspiration has returned, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the Queen of the grasshoppers was holding a great party in her palace of greenery and light to celebrate the return of spring. All the inhabitants of the area were invited, cicada musicians, wizardly scarabs, ladybugs, ants and all sorts of other furry critters. There were also other strange creatures, who walked on two legs and lived in the nearby mushroom city. But... on the eve of the celebration, a catastrophe disturbed the party's preparation: a giant, the likes of which hasn't been seen in ages, has trampled the garden where the celebrations were to be held with his big feet. Even worse, each time he seemed to be on the point of leaving, he would retrace his steps, nearly crushing the small and terrorized inhabitants. Warned by a young bee, a few guests from a nearby village hastily decided to come to help the insect queen and her people. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I could see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can draw the giant out of the queen's gardens. My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: The giant has finally moved away a bit, but he's now started to tear out the flowers from the queen's garden! For the second Chapter, explain to me how you can protect the friendly plants from this destructive intruder. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! But you're help is still needed! The giant has just grabbed the eldest daughter of the grasshopper queen. Sitting on a rock, he is looking at her between his big fingers. I think it's now time for you to go rescue the unfortunate princess. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. What if the giant was just a man? He wasn't looking to trample the queen's gardens and tear up her plants: he was just pacing and came up with the idea of picking a bouquet of wildflowers for his beloved before their meeting. Whoever can keep the man's attention until the arrival of his beloved, in order to prevent more damage being caused in the queen's garden, will be the hero of this tale. »

The Factory

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, a factory-town which looked like an immense mechanical box was built. Its inhabitants had worked and lived inside for so long that they couldn't remember what it was like outside. In fact, they had even stopped imagining that there could be anything else living on the outside! One day, a new factory boss was named. From that day on this cruel and greedy little man started weighing down the inhabitants, big and small, with more work than ever before. "Hurry! Hurry!" He'd repeat endlessly. "This gear needs to be finished before the year is over, or else..." Exhausted by this infernal rhythm, the inhabitants were walking around in the alleyways like robots, performing the same movements every day by rote, day after day. But one night, a little group who had been working in the same workshop decided that things could no longer go on like this. They dropped their tools and went on a quest to find the factory boss. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can imagine the first Chapter: Tell me how you can tame the ignominious little character so that he will be nicer towards the inhabitants. My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: The little boss has revealed to you the existence of a very important event which must happen tomorrow night in a secret area of the factory. In order to have everything ready on time, he has been hurrying everyone on the job. Well, in the second Chapter, explain to me how you can find that mysterious place without a single map? »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to learn what's going to happen tomorrow in this place. I can very well picture it taking place on the top floor of the factory: a room with large, impossible to open shutters which cover an entire wall. But what could the shutters be hiding? This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. From the beginning I thought about this factory actually being a cuckoo clock in a giant's house. For once, the new boss in charge of the workers wanted the chimes at midnight to go off on time. Whoever can successfully motivate the inhabitants to finish the work on time will be the hero of this tale. »

The Toys

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can start like this: A long time ago, to the great joy of the king the queen gave birth to a son. The prince was so showered with gifts and spoiled that at the age of five, his room was already flooded with an incredible number of toys. Despite all that, the child wasn't happy, because despite all his privileges, he had no friends. Each night he was haunted by the same nightmare. In that terrifying dream, he would become a small teddy bear. Alone in his room, in complete darkness, he would hear strange noises all around him like someone's throat being cleared and other cracking noises. All of a sudden, the room would light up and then puppets with scary faces would creep closer to him as though they wanted to steal his heart. The prince would then awaken, sweating, unable to fall back to sleep until the early morning. One night, he decided, before going to bed, to place his favorite stuffed toys next to him in bed: his little teddy bear, but also a number of fairytale characters given to him by his godmother. "That way" he thought "if I have that nightmare again, this time, my friends will be with me". But once again, as soon as his head hit the pillow, the nightmare began anew... »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can help the young "bear prince" to chase the evil puppets out of his room. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Unfortunately, the leader of the toys does not want to listen and the puppets have caught you, tied you up and suspended you from the ceiling! Well, in the second Chapter, tell me how you can get yourselves out of this sticky situation! »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to accompany the "bear prince" to his parent's room. He can thus find some comfort at their side. But be careful, you are in the dark and the castle is just so big! This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting ideas for my story. I only need to find an ending now. And what if the cause of this nightmare was just due to the great loneliness of the prince? Whoever can successfully gain his confidence and become his first real friend, will be the hero of this tale. »

The Mirror

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the youngest daughter of the king would awaken each night with a feeling as if someone was watching her while she slept. Thinking that it was only a bad dream, she always ended up going back to sleep. One night in which sleep took its time getting to her, the princess saw a shadow glide to her bed and bend over her for a brief instant. She barely had the time to scream before the mysterious visitor had run off. Curiosity being stronger than fear, she jumped out of her bed and discreetly pursued the silhouette. After having crossed the silent corridors of the castle, she saw it disappear through the attic door. But it remained closed when she tried to open it herself. The next day, at the same time, she went up to the attic again, but this time accompanied by her friends. Once the door opened, they entered the room, where the warm light of a summer day was coming out of a strange mirror... »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can find the trace of the fugitive silhouette which must be, at this very moment, on the other side of the mirror, in a very strange land. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: After a long trip in the mirror's country, you've come to the doors of an imposing mushroom palace. But the guards don't seem willing to let strangers enter. Well, in the second Chapter, tell me how you can foil their vigilance and slip inside. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to investigate. How are you going to find the mysterious silhouette in this gigantic mushroom palace? This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. You've finally found the mysterious visitor, my dear imaginary companions. But would you've guessed it was none other than the prince from the neighboring kingdom? Ever since he first met the young princess, he hasn't stopped thinking about her. But, too shy to declare his love for her, he just came to watch her in her sleep, using a magic mirror which linked their countries together. Whoever can help the prince reveal his love to the young princess and win her heart will be the hero of this tale. »

The Magician

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, in an old isolated tower, lived a mage with immense knowledge whose sole company was his faithful servant monk. He had known ancient times in which bloody wars had ravaged the region. According to rumor, the mage had not left his tower since that long ago time, still thinking that wars were being waged outside. In the same county, the local lord who had taken a young foreign princess as his bride was actively preparing for his wedding. But his bride, from a family of wise men, was thirsty for knowledge. The lord, understanding his wife-to-be, asked for the wise mage to be called upon to serve as a witness to the wedding, the date of which was approaching. But alas, none of the servants sent had been able to make the old man leave his lair. It was at that moment that a small group of friends, used to trials of all sorts decided to take things in hand. And now our friends are entering the dark tower and asking the monk to lead them to his master. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can persuade the monk, who doesn't seem inclined to help you, to guide you to his master. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: The monk has finally led you to the top of the tower. But the moment you stepped through the door it closed behind you! Well, in the second Chapter, tell me how you will be getting out of this trap, and mind the heights! »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to discover where the mage is hiding. Maybe there's a secret passage somewhere which will lead to him? But how can you find out? This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting ideas for my story. I only need to find an ending now. A small secret passage has led you to a dark room reeking of magic. The monk seems surprised to find you there. And what if this mysterious character is in fact the sought after mage? That would explain why no one has ever found him in his own tower. Whoever can discover the truth about this and save the lord's wedding will be the hero of this tale. »

The Mill

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, in a country rich with wheat, corn and cereals of all kinds, brave peasants lived in peace. But alas, peacetime can only last for so long: one summer night, a swarm of threatening creatures which looked like dragons appeared in the amber sky of the countryside. Appearing out of nowhere, they started to swoop down on the grazing areas and disperse the cattle. In a short period of time, the region once so rich was emptied of its inhabitants and became a desolate wasteland. The lord of the province then gathered a few brave people, in order to chase out the intruders and allow the exiles to return live in their huts. The small group, on the move, did not take long to spot the flying beasts circling an old mill on the top of a hill... »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can get closer to that mill, without being spotted or attacked by the monsters. My tale is in your hands!»

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Once inside the mill you are surprised to hear the metallic voice of a small automaton call to you: "Strangers, if you wish to go upstairs, you will first have to use the mechanism which will create the stairway." Well, in the second Chapter, tell me how you can reach the upper floor of the mill to see what's going on there? »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! You've found a mysterious person on the upper floor, busy working on a strange machine. I think it's now time to discover what's going on here. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. I've played a good trick on you my little imaginary friends. You've trembled before this army of dragons, haven't you? Well, what would you say if you learned that the mysterious stranger in the mill is none other than a genius inventor who has never been taken seriously by anyone? In order to prove his talent to the rest of the world, he has decided to create an invention which will change the course of history. He had created a machine which can project a ray of light onto the clouds in order to make creatures from his imagination appear. And everyone had seen them as being real. Whoever can manage to convince the inventor to stop his zany experiments, which terrify the countryside will be the hero of this tale. »

The City

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the king of a small country believed that beyond the borders of his kingdom there was nothing but a vast uninhabited land. His wife had tried to claim otherwise, but the king would not listen to her. In his defense, his most faithful advisors, afraid of being sent away, did not dare contradict the old man's beliefs. So the queen asked her closest friends to go explore distant lands and each bring back a wonderful object. She could then show them to her husband, the king, and prove him he was wrong... But when the little band came back to the country three years later, each with a trophy to offer to the sovereign, an unpleasant surprise awaited them. They had barely passed through the gates of the city when they felt an uneasy sensation: the few people they met on the way were hurried, fearful and were looking at them with wary and hateful glares. Our friends felt like strangers in their own city. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can find a way to no longer attract wary and hateful glares from the population. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: You have been blocked into a dead end by a band of riverside toughs threatening to attack you. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you are going to get out of this mess without getting hurt. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! You've managed to enter the palace thanks to the queen, who was forewarned of your arrival. I think it's now time to go find the king to show him your offerings. But what wonderful items from faraway countries have you brought back? This third Chapter's up to you!»

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. And what if nothing has really changed in the kingdom? What if it is only your own way of looking at things which has changed? By meeting other people in faraway places your long trip has doubtless opened your eyes and heart. Thus, when you returned, maybe you weren't able to recognize your own country, for too long facing inward. Whoever can manage to free the monarch from his fear of the unknown in order to give the kingdom its former vitality back will be the hero of this tale. »

The Treasure

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the inhabitants of the kingdom discovered with fear that all of the fountains and rivers of all the towns and cities had run dry overnight. Panic started to grow in the population. The king called upon specialists from all over the country, but none managed to discover the origin of this calamity. Nevertheless, one of them claimed that an old lady had been surprised by a well so deep that it could lead to the depths of the earth appearing in her field. In it, all the way at the bottom, maybe the solution to the mystery could be found. The king called upon people he trusted to go down the well and solve the problem of the disappearing water. The small band immediately sent out; each with their own supplies stepped over the edge of the well and disappeared into the gaping hole. Their descent into the night and heat felt like an eternity, until they emerged into a dimly illuminated cavern. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can figure out what's happening in this strange underground realm. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: A miner approaches you and asks you to find his son, who is lost in this vast maze of grottoes. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you will manage to help him out. Maybe he'll be able to help you afterward? »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to get back to your quest. As you were getting close to a treasure room, a slim silhouette approaches you: "Noble strangers, have mercy on a poor creature like me who hasn't seen the light of day in so long!" This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. Here's what I had in mind: You've barely had time to step into the treasure room when a dragon calls out to you: "Young adventurers, you've just proven to me that you are pure of heart. Here is my most precious possession; I hope you will manage to not waste it as those above have in the past". Once these words spoken, the mound of gold at the dragon's feet transforms itself into a lake of pure and clear water. Whoever can best manage to make the villagers profit from this treasure will be the hero of this tale. »

The Maze

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, an immense magical labyrinth was built at the entrance to an endless desert. A prophecy from the dawn of time proclaimed that the first person to discover the secret of the labyrinth would instantly see the desert transform itself into a vast kingdom with rich and fertile soil of which he'd become the sovereign. To start the miraculous phenomena, two magical objects hidden in the labyrinth had to be found and used properly. But to this day, no one has fulfilled the prophecy. The guardian of the maze, an ageless and merciless creature gives no chance to whoever dares enter its lair. One day, a small group of daring companions decided to tempt fate and try their hands at it by pooling their skills together; that's how they arrived at the doors of the maze... »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you are going to get through the maze without getting lost and thus going around in circles endlessly. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: you've noticed some sort of opening in the guardian's clothes. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you are going to slip through this opening without being spotted. The two items you're looking for are probably hidden inside. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! You have discovered an underground crypt cluttered with countless statuettes and other antiques crumbling into dust. I think it's now time to claim the two magical items. But where could they be hidden in this mess of seemingly random items? This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. You're now in possession of the two magical items. Whoever can use them properly, as foretold by the prophecy, will become the lord of a new and prosperous kingdom and will be the hero of this tale. »

The Galleon

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, an old sailor who had sailed the four oceans confided a secret to a young captain he felt fondness for: "Hey you, young 'un! I be thinkin' you'd have 'nuff to buy an ol' sea wolf like me sumthin' to drink... I like ya. N' if ya think you c'n listen to me for a bit you won't have wasted yer evenin'. Y'know, I've sailed lots, on lots o' ships... I've seen lots o' stuff that'd make the hair stand on lot's o' people's heads. But I'd never seen a ghost ship until earlier tonight! No, for sure! A real galleon with rotting masts. As real as you are! As real as the barmaid there, behind ye... Brr... She's about as scary too... We met it comin' close to an island, far from here! Past the southern current. But it's not on maps. Not at all! Only on my own map! And I'm about to leave it to you for next to nothing with this chest that belonged to me ol' dad as a bonus! 'Cause I'll certainly never be settin' sail to there again for sure! That'd be bloody business! For sure me ol' dad's got sumthin' to do with all that... On me word as a corsair, young 'un. If ye've got the guts to go there ye might be findin' sumthin' worth quenching that thirst for adventure ye young 'uns always have. I'd rather be quenching me thirst here, m'yself – y'ain't safe from meeting the dead, but at least here they won't be movin'! Oh and the chest, take it! The ol' man had made me promise to only open it once on the island... it'd be too much bad luck for me to open it here!" The young captain took the chest, thanked the old sailor and left to gather up a crew of misfits on the spot. Two days later they set sail, and after a difficult two month long trip, the boat arrived within sight of the little island. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you will counter the threat of the ghost ship which seems to be headed straight for you. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: The threat of the ghost ship seems averted. Unfortunately your vessel seems to have suffered serious damage! Well, in the second Chapter, tell me how you will repair the damaged ship. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time to drop anchor by the famous island. But instead of getting closer to it, it seems to be getting further away! There must be a solution. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. You've finally managed to set foot on the island. The old sailor's chest was barely opened when a voice from beyond the grave was heard: "Thank you for getting here! Unfortunately no treasure awaits you... Over a century ago, my father had shipwrecked near this island. Ever since that fateful day his soul and that of his crew have been unable to find peace. I lured you here in the hope that you'd complete the task I was not been able to do while alive! There must be a way to help these unfortunate souls." Whoever can manage to accomplish this noble mission will be the hero of this tale. »

The Octopus

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, the wife of a young lord had given birth to an heir. His parents had the most beautiful room built for him at the heart of their palace. Nothing was too beautiful for their son. Every morning, his mother would come to see him; she would gaze at him, enchanted for hours; until one day when the door to his room opened there was an enormous octopus that stood right behind it. Horrified, the young woman jumped back and let out shrieks which were heard throughout the palace. At once the guards came to help but could only push the creature back a little. Over the following days, new attempts to go through the door were made, but unfailingly the octopus would bar the way to the room and the young heir. And so the kingdom's lord called upon his people to help him. A small group of inhabitants answered his call. And this is how they found themselves facing the troublesome octopus. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can come up with a way to get around the octopus in order to enter the room. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Once in the room, an old man appears in front of the octopus as if by magic: "Young adventurers, do not be afraid; show me that your heart is pure and I will help you. What is the most precious possession you are willing to offer me?" Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you will answer the old man's request. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time for the old man to guide you: "You've proven to me that you are pure of heart. Unfortunately, my magic is running out and my image will soon disappear. Find my physical body somewhere in this palace so that I can help you". This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. You've finally been able to find the old sage in the flesh in the deepest cell of the castle's dungeon. The man seems happy to see you again: "I'm but an old magician traveling the kingdom looking for knowledge. Normally, the great of the world do not deny hospitality to a man of my standing: but the Lady of this palace had me thrown into this jail. That woman needed a good lesson! So I've turned what she held the most dear to her in the world, her child, into a fearsome creature". Whoever can manage to open the eyes and the heart of the lord's wife, and so return her son to her, will be the hero of this tale. »

The Table

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, an evil being terrorized the inhabitants of a small burg in the kingdom. He lived in a rundown house lost at the far end of a forgotten field where no one ever ventured. It was said the man had dark and dangerous powers, like the ability to turn his victims into things or animals. Because of these rumors, the inhabitants lived in a perpetual climate of fear and wariness, especially since no one knew what he looked like. At their wit's end, the upper crust of the city decided to send a few courageous inhabitants in an expedition to the dark dwelling. But no sooner had they crossed the threshold that the unfortunates were shrunken to the size of mice, before they even had a chance to say anything! »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can get rid of the large cat looking at you and licking his lips... My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you'll find a way to get back to your normal size now that the threat of the cat has been averted. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! I think it's now time that you find where the house's sinister inhabitant is hiding. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. After having discovered a laboratory in the basement of this creepy house, you've finally figured out that the most recent experiment of the sorcerer went awry. Apparently it turned him into a vulgar fleabag. Yep, the very one who was staring at you so hungrily. Serves him right! But maybe this experience has taught him a lesson and given him time to think about what he's done? Whoever can make the fairest decision as to how the cat-sorcerer should be dealt with will be the hero of this tale. »

The Chess Game

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, all of the children of a village disappeared overnight, without leaving a trace. Search parties went out the following days but they returned, alas, empty-handed. Warned about this mysterious disappearance, a handful of neighboring cities offered their help to desperate parents in helping find their progeny. They started their search by visiting an old solitary lady living in a small cabin on a mountain top. But the companions had barely enough time to enter the ancient dwelling before an acrid-smelling smoke filled the house, burning their eyes. When they could see again, they realized with a start that they were no longer in the house: the house was gone! So was the mountain! They seemed to be trapped on a gigantic moving chess board. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can free the little girl from the clutches of an apparently unfriendly red queen! My tale is in your hands. »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: According to the little girl you've rescued, fifteen other children are hidden on the chessboard. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you are going to find these unfortunate children in this nightmarish black and white desert. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! Actually, the children have been transformed into red and white pawns! They risk being killed by the rooks, knights, bishops and other pieces... I think it's now time to find an ally to help you return to the real world with the children. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. The white rook was playing really close to his chest! Not being able to stand the fate reserved for the "children-pawns", he decided to sacrifice himself by putting the red king in check, breaking the curse on the spot. The red queen decapitated the unlucky rook immediately as the children returned to their human forms. A bright light flooded the chessboard at that moment, and a few moments later, when it faded, you were back in the cabin, next to the old lady. "What a pity" she said "I could've won that match, but without any pawns, it's not a fair game". What kind of insanity is the old lady suffering from? Whoever can manage to understand the motivations of her dark plot will be the hero of this tale. »

The Toad

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: Along time ago, the inhabitants of a small village were disappearing one after another, kidnapped, according to rumor, by a demonic warlock. Alas, none of these unfortunates had come back to confirm these rumors. Terrorized by the idea of seeing their loved ones turned into a cockroach or a pumpkin, a handful of brave citizens decided to lead an expedition to the warlock's island, lost in the middle of a lake. But once at the shore they found a thick fog which prevented them from seeing the feared warlock's abode. As they were waiting for the pea soup to dissipate, a large toad approached. "Ribbit, Ribbit. I was transformed by the evil warlock a month ago now. Ribbit, I've managed to flee the island by swimming, but a powerful spell keeps me from leaving the area around the island. So you've come to save your missing friends? Ribbit. That's very brave of you. If you want I can lead you to the island! Ribbit, I've seen a rowboat moored not too far from here." And this is how our companions, led by the toad man, found themselves heading to the island of the evil warlock. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can land on the shore. Quickly, now, as it seems that, according to the ripples on the lake, a large lake monster is waking up. My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Now that you are safe on the wharf, you have no other choice but to enter the elevated temple. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you are going to enter the building when there don't seem to be any doors leading into it. »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! You should've been more careful though. The toad has just regained his normal form: that of the evil warlock who has now managed to lead you into his lair! I think it's now time to capture this evil man before he uses his powers. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. One year ago, the toad-warlock had left his hometown as he couldn't stand being mocked due to his short size anymore. In order to prove to the world that talent isn't measured in centimeters, he decided to build a tower which reached beyond the heavens. That's why, using his magic, he had kidnapped villagers in order to help build his monumental work. Whoever can bring the little warlock back down to earth will be the hero of this tale. »

The Enchanted Forest

Prologue. « Ah, there you are my dear friends! Now that inspiration is back, let's not waste time: let's begin this new tale together. The story can begin like this: A long time ago, it was said that in the endless forest which bordered the kingdom, there was a secret place with a strange power. If one could enter that place that person could, according to legend, make a wish and it would be immediately granted. A king of centuries past had, in his youth, found the place, which had given him power and long life. But ever since, no one had been able to find the magical place. Admittedly, the forest was far from being welcoming. Dark and disquieting, it sheltered a number of fearsome creatures. The current king, whose curiosity was matched only by his cowardice, gathered a small group of subjects renowned for their bravery, and ordered them to find the much-coveted area. Luckily, one of them knew a band of familiar gnomes from the forest very well. And this was how the merry band left for adventure, their supplies packed over their shoulders. »

Chapter 1. « Hmmm, not a bad beginning! Now, my dear imaginary friends, I can see the first Chapter: Tell me how you can pass by the millennial tree guarding the entrance of the heart of the forest without being noticed? My tale is in your hands! »

Chapter 2. « Thank you for these great ideas, I think I can imagine the rest already: Getting past the old tree has cost you precious time and the gnomes don't seem to have waited for you. They are chasing after a mysterious firebird. Well, in the second Chapter, show me how you are going to find their trace, despite the darkness, as without their assistance; I'm afraid you'll be lost for good! »

Chapter 3. « Bravo! You're doing fine on your own! After hours spent in the gloomy forest tracking the gnomes, you've finally arrived at their village. Their king grants you an audience: "So you are looking for the forest's sanctuary? It's a sacred place for us. The last time a human went there, he betrayed our trust by making a selfish wish". I think it's now time for you to perform a worthy action which will reconcile the gnomes and the humans. This third Chapter's up to you! »

Epilogue. « Now those are some very interesting thoughts for my story. I only need to find an ending now. Thanks to your actions, the king of the gnomes seems ready to give the humans a chance. He leads you to the sacred place, which is none other than the firebird's nest. "Hello humans, I am the spirit of this forest. I have the power to grant one of your wishes. I'm listening". After these few words, you're faced with a difficult choice: are you going to make a wish, or will you go get your king? Whoever can find a happy ending to my story will be the hero of this tale. »

Proposal examples

First chapter of the "Chess Game" scenario

Anne, Paul, William, Matthew and Laura start a game of Fabula. Anne, who has the role of Grimm, has just read the "Chapter 1" paragraph of the "scenario" file to the character/players. This section lets the players know that they must find a hiding place to save the little girl from the clutches of the red queen.

Paul, playing the prince, is for the moment the only one with his hand raised to make a proposal. Anne gives him his speaking turn: "you seem inspired, dear prince, I'm all ears".

Here's Paul's proposal: "This queen seems rather unfriendly. But, like all other ladies of high rank, I'm certain that she would not be insensitive to a present of some sort. It just so happens that I could offer her the ring I'm wearing (Paul take the "item" card representing the ring from the middle of the table and places it in front of him). It's a piece of jewelry handed to me by my ancestors and I'm sure that the queen would be more willing to listen to me afterward."

After hearing Paul, Anne feels that his proposal advances the story and that the item has been integrated into the story in a relevant way. She says: "This proposal seems interesting to me, I'll validate it. But maybe my other little characters have ideas which are just as good?" Anne takes a "quill" marker and places it on top of the item Paul used.

William and Laura then raise their hand to make a proposal. Anne grants Laura, who is playing the wolf, her speaking turn: "I'm curious to see what the Wolf will propose..."

Laura offers: "Luckily I happen to have a pick with me (Laura take the "item" card representing the pick from the center of the table and places it in front of her), I'll go make a hole in the red tower. I'll be able to hide the little girl inside."

Anne doesn't seem convinced by her friend's idea and answers: "My dear Wolf, do you really think the red queen will give you enough time to dig your hole? I think that she will have you broken in a thousand pieces before you're even halfway done!" Anne doesn't place any "quill" markers on the item used by Laura.