Bard Programs

Shape the Beginning of Talescape

Two ways to be part of the first generation of Talescape creators. Apply for a Talescape Original and build a funded flagship story, or join the Founding Bards and publish your first Tale in 2026 to keep 100% of its revenue forever.

Programs Overview

Two Paths, One Vision

Whether you want to create a funded showcase story or simply begin your own journey, Talescape offers two programs for the authors who will define its world. Choose Talescape Originals for a commissioned collaboration, or join the Founding Bards to publish your first story in 2026 and keep 100 % of its net revenue forever.

Talescape Originals

What it is: Paid commissions for flagship stories that demonstrate what Talescape can do.

Status: Applications are open now. Submit your pitch today to be considered for the first 2026 slate.

How it works:

  • Apply through Discord DM or email with a story pitch (1–2 pages) and writing sample.
  • Selected authors receive a fixed commission fee based on story scope and quality.
  • Released as Talescape Originals, prominently featured in marketing, trailers, and press.
  • Authors keep full IP ownership. Talescape receives a non-exclusive license for distribution and promotion.

Goal: Show the emotional and artistic range of Talescape through 2–3 curated launch stories.

Rewards:

  • Founding Bard 2026 badge on your profile.
  • Paid commission (flat fee)
  • Talescape Original label and homepage placement
  • Promotion in official media, trailers, and social posts

The Talescape Originals program depends on securing external funding. While applications are open now, commissioning will begin once funding is confirmed.

Founding Bards

What it is: A one-year program (2026) honoring the first authors who publish on Talescape.

Status: Join the Discord to declare your intent and secure early access to the editor in Q1 2026.

How it works:

  • Apply via Discord DM to Christian (Aureola) and state you want to join the Founding Bard Program.
  • Publish your first story during 2026 to qualify for the program.
  • Each Bard’s first story keeps a 0 % Talescape share forever.
  • All founding stories are preserved in an archive and featured with a permanent “Founding Story” badge.

Goal: To celebrate and empower the pioneers whose stories will define the platform’s identity.

Rewards:

  • Founding Bard 2026 badge on your profile.
  • 0 % Talescape share on your first story published in 2026 (kept forever).
  • Permanent visibility through the Founding Stories filter.

The Founding Bard Program runs from January 1 to December 31 2026. From January 2027 onward, the standard 15 % Talescape share applies to all new stories.

Both programs celebrate creativity, independence, and the spirit of Talescape’s beginning.

Programs Timeline

Key Dates

The Talescape Bard Programs unfold gradually throughout 2026. Applications for Talescape Originals are open now, while Founding Bards and all accepted authors will receive early editor access in Q1 2026.

  • Q4 2025

    Talescape Originals

    Talescape Originals applications are open now. Writers can send pitches and portfolios to apply for funded flagship stories. All submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis.

  • Q1 2026

    First Bards Invited

    All approved authors receive their invite codes. Invitees can access the Talescape Editor early to explore its workflow and prepare stories for release.

  • TBD 2026

    Funding Confirmation

    Once Talescape’s funding applications are approved, commissioned development of Talescape Originals begins. Selected authors will be contacted.

  • Target Q2 - Q3 2026

    Public Release

    Talescape’s public launch is planned for Q2 2026, depending on polish and review progress. If necessary, the release may shift into early Q3 2026 to ensure quality.

Quality & Integrity Rules

To preserve the integrity of Talescape’s archive and brand, all funded works are reviewed for quality, while Founding Bard stories are limited to one per author. This ensures fairness and clarity while keeping full creative freedom for independent creators.

Talescape Originals
Only human-created stories are eligible (no AI-generated writing or art).
Founding Bards
Slots are distributed evenly. Only one story per Bard qualifies for the 0 % Talescape share.
Reviewed for Quality
Stories must pass all automated checks and manual review before release.
Reviewed for Effort
Talescape may exclude incomplete or placeholder submissions from public listings.

Eyebrow

Bring your Voice. Shape the Beginning.

Join our Discord and tell us which path you choose:
Talescape Originals or Founding Bard.