{ mirror mirror }

[dreamposts]

MIRROR MIRROR

With the sleepwalking curse over, everyone will have some time to rest and recuperate—until Jack Frost comes barging in with news of a clue on how to help his beloved Ice Queen who still remains asleep. The clue was the mirror shard that was in her chest, and there are theories that it may have been a fragment of a much stronger, powerful mirror she had been given some time ago. Problem is, he can't find it nor can he remember who gave it to her. He does, however, have a magic incantation that will allow people to enter mirrors and hopefully find a trace. Unfortunately, this horrendously backfires and we have mirror chaos instead. Dammit, Jack.

More details on everything can be found here. We will request any thread submissions for certain prompts during AC .

I. REVEREIN

II. MIRROR WORLD

COMMENTS

I. REVEREIN

It all begins in Reverein, where there's a strange shift in the air upon Jack's attempt to cast the spell. But instead of affecting just one mirror, it reflects off the surface and spreads out to the entire town, hitting every reflective surface instead. Ripples can be seen before the surfaces still, but it's too late. Every reflective surface—glass, mirror, window—is under a different effect because of the botched spell.

And some are being unwittingly pulled into them.

Fortunately It is possible to communicate and even watch people from the other side of the mirror, but it's only through certain mirrors and at certain times. It also will be temporary, so while one mirror might work one time, it may not work again.

A. Strange Reflections. While some mirrors may still reflect proper images, many will have…unusual changes.

🪞 You are what you see. Whether it's an odd hairstyle, change in skin color, or style of clothing in the reflection, suddenly the viewer will look exactly like what's reflected. The most extreme is a different form entirely.
🏡 Glimpses of home. Everyone will have a rare glimpse of their home world, and these can be instances from the past, present, or even a limited future. They are just reflections and cannot be interacted with, and future reflections may be blurry to prevent the person from seeing too much. For those who have memory issues, such visions will also be blurry, but perhaps they can help stir some things…
🔮 Most desired. Mirrors that have a bit of a pink hue to them will reflect the viewer's most desired "thing." It could be an object, person, place, or even a general idea. However, if not careful the viewer may become trapped in a trance and will need to be removed or smash the mirror.

B. Clone Wars. Mirrors that do not show any kind of reflection are to be quickly taken away and covered as it will begin to create duplicates in Reverein of what is reflected within it. Yes, even people, and they will be very obviously fake: wrong colors, different voices, odd behavior, etc. and will usually be harmless. These "clones" will continue to appear and multiply until the mirror has been covered, and will need to either be destroyed or captured and shoved into the mirror, where it will lose its "no reflection" status and become a proper mirror again…only for them to appear on the other side in Mirror World.

C. Mirrorsnatched. A mirror with a black rim has the chance of absorbing a significant personality trait or memory of the one looking into it, and when this happens, the person will walk away feeling very muddle-headed and off. The mirror will "keep" this part of the person and someone from the Mirror World side must find their essence and "shove" it back out onto any mirror surface so that the original owner can break the mirror and retrieve it. The downside of this method is that breaking a mirror means one less mirror those on the Mirror side can use, so they need to choose carefully.

D. The Unknown. Appearing in both the Mirror World and Reverein will be a strange mirror masked, black cloaked figure called "The Unknown." It traverses through the mirrors and through the walls, seeking those with happy reflections and will try to corrupt them with nightmares. People on both sides of the mirrors will be able to confront and try to stop the Unknown, though beware its chocolate attacks.

II. MIRROR WORLD

Everything in this "Mirror World" is, in a word, chaotic. Imagine an AI-generated monstrosity based off of Picasso, Escher, and Dr. Seuss, where everything seems to be upside down, backwards, colors everywhere and nowhere, and everything feels so fragmented that one step feels like walking towards the edge of a cliff. In a way it's nightmarish in an unusual sense, and those inside can feel that touch of "madness" that seeps through the cold air.

Beware the strange creatures in the Mirror World. They are grotesque monstrosities, many of them looking as if they were stitched together from different parts. Fortunately they are susceptible to weapons and dreamotion and those inside the Mirror World will find they are able to use different abilities, especially those with reflective properties.

A. Fragment of their old self. In order to get out of the Mirror World, those inside will need to catch a small fragment of themselves that has escaped and is running around. This fragment is actually a piece of their old self prior to arriving in Songerein. For some, this self may not be so different, but for long-time residents, they may seem a lot more different. To make things more interesting, this self can be from any point of the character's past. It just has to be a version of the character from before entering Songerein. This version will also appear "homesick" and "want" to return to their original home, regardless if the character actually feels that way. Thus the fragment will seek out mirrors that will reflect anything of their home world. Shattering these mirrors will weaken the fragment until it can be caught. But that's only half the challenge. If the fragment is injured, the original will also feel the damage but to a lesser degree. If the fragment is destroyed, then the original will be "knocked out" for a few seconds before a new fragment appears. However, this fragment will be much more distorted and worse than the one before.

B. Distorted Memories. At random points while traversing, characters may come across strange pockets of the world that they will feel drawn to. Following said instinct will lead them to a shifted landscape that will reflect images of home from different points in time (past, present, maybe even future) as if they've just walked right into it, but just like everything else, they are distorted. The changes can be as subtle as the wrong color of clothes, having too many limbs, to something major like the sky now being the ground. The only way out will either be destroying the anomalies or correcting them, and they will be rewarded with a mirror shard that will aid in their escape.


C. Warped Sense of Self. The longer a person stays within the Mirror World, the less "coherent" they will feel, and sometimes sound. Their memories will slowly become more disjointed, their personality feeling a bit "off", and they may even forget who they are or where they are from. Even their physical selves will start to twist and change, starting with something subtle (e.g. eye color) and then growing more drastic as time goes on (where did those extra fingers come from? Or why are they suddenly much shorter?) Finding those reflections of home will help with these anomalies, but those weak of heart be warned: the distortions may only exacerbate the issue and make them believe that they are the truth instead. Help anyone who might be caught in fixing these so that they can recover.


D. Finding an exit. To leave the world, those inside must find a mirror that will connect back to Reverein, and those on the other side can also try to help by posing as "anchors" for those inside to recognize. Otherwise, there are many mirrors in the Mirror World that will lead to different places within Songerein—presumably. However, perhaps due to the magic or needing something else, they will be unable to pass through any mirrors that are not connected to Reverein. This is where players have the fun opportunity to make up whatever kind of location or place the characters may see reflected on the mirrors. They could be existing locations in the game, or new ones that could be explored in the future. One unique place we can mention will be reflections of a city covered in night.

Only upon finding a mirror that leads back to Reverein, but they will also need help from the outside. Someone from within Reverein must also be there to physically reach in and pull them out—while hopefully not accidentally be pulled in themselves.

I. REVEREIN

II. MIRROR WORLD

COMMENTS

Comments

Iris Wilson | The Great Ace Attorney

[herlockian]

I A.

[The mirror Iris stands in front of reflects the cozy image of 221B Baker Street, and a fan of a certain series of mystery stories might spot enough things to deduce the address. It's not exactly what's usually described, though.

In the main room is the great detective himself, Herlock Shomes. With him is a much smaller Iris, probably no more than seven, carrying a pink bear doll under one arm. She refers to him as "Daddy". He motions her to sit on the sofa, and she hops on it. He sits in the nearby armchair, and after a moment a very difficult conversation plays out.

Poor Iris is clearly quite shocked as he informs her that he's not really her father. He tries to soften the blow with additional information; he told her now because he knew she was astute enough to figure it out and he wouldn't be able to hide it from her. He also promises that when the time is right, he'll tell her about her real father.

It may be a relief when the image of her upset little face blurs, and another moment in that dwelling begins. It's later, but not by much. Perhaps it's even the same day. Sholmes speaks to her, and in her response, she now calls him "Hurley". This time you get to watch him be completely shocked, but after a bit he seems to silently accept it.

The present-day Iris looks very ashamed and guilty as she watches these scenes.]

I'm so sorry, Hurley...

I B.

[There's a ten-year-old wandering the streets of Reverein who looks awfully similar to Iris. Physically, she's identical. That's about the only similarity in their appearance, though. This child is dressed in the fanciest Victorian finery, holding a matching parasol to block the sun. Her hair is nicely styled, but much more conventionally. She walks slowly with perfectly practiced posture, and will occasionally address anyone who happens to pass by. The kindness also seems to carry over to this version of her, at least.]

Excuse me. Would you please let my mummy know where I am? We've gotten separated somehow, and I do hate to worry her.

[Meanwhile, your regularly scheduled steampunk Iris is hurrying about trying to find out what she should do about this copy. You might run into her trying to gather intel or trying to carefully trail the clone without being noticed.]

Wildcard

[Want to do something else? Iris will be in Reverein, but otherwise have at it! You can contact me at kaitodoushi or on Discord @ belinsk if you'd like to discuss anything.]

I A.

[lestray]

[Gina steps in just at the tail end, missing the whole conversation but hearing Iris apologize to Sholmes. It is easy to be transfixed on what's seen in the reflection. It's been so long now since Sholmes has disappeared... not that she misses him! And the sight of an even bittier Iris might melt Gina's heart. But still, she keeps her focus on the actual Iris who is standing right there by the mirror and apologizing to it.]

It's alright, Iris. You ain't got nuffin' to apologize for. [She looks down, tugging at her cap.] I know you gotta miss 'im an' all, but we'll see 'im again sometime. You'll see.

[herlockian]

[Iris starts a bit hearing Gina's voice. She'd been so caught up in these memories that she hadn't noticed anyone come up to join her. While she turns her attention to her with wide eyes, it's long before she casts her eyes downward and frowns.]

I know. I do miss him. But I wish I'd realised back then that it didn't really matter...

[On the topic of parents, there's something she's been meaning to chat with her bestie here about, especially since Gina had been so nice to offer to find her father. It's still not the easiest thing to bring up, but if there were any natural point to do so, it would be now. She's taking a noticeable amount of time to mull over this, however, so actually starting the conversation isn't happening just this moment.]

[lestray]

[It's not often she sees Iris looking so down. It strikes Gina right in the heart. She comes closer and tries to place a comforting hand on her shoulder.]

Well, that Sholmes... that man's a lot of things, but the guy's still real smart. 'Specially when it comes to you. I'm sure 'e knows wot you think about 'im, yeah?

[Gina offers a soft smile, hoping to bring Iris some comfort. But with her silence, she wonders what's going on in the little girl's brilliant head.]

[herlockian]

[Iris looks up at Gina, and while she doesn't really smile, her glumness seems to go away for now.]

Mm hmm. I had to be careful about it before I got here, actually. He kept crying every time I tried to say something to him as my daddy.

[While that got the smile back into her eyes for an instant, she quickly grows serious again.]

...On that topic, I've been meaning to talk to you about something recently, Ginny. It's...rather complicated, however.

[lestray]

Wow... The bloke's even more sensitive than I thought...

[If this wasn't being said by a sad Iris, she might have gotten a chuckle out of Sholmes being driven to tears like that. Although at the same time... to think that Sholmes could value being a father that much... It's more than Gina would expect of most adults.

In any case, Iris's condition has Gina's full condition. Gina remains by her side, ready to give her whatever support she needs.]

That's fine. I know I ain't the best at keepin' up wiv tough things, but you know I'll do my best. Especially if it'll 'elp you out! [She tries to give a reassuring smile.] You can tell me anytin'.

[herlockian]

[Iris takes a deep breath.]

Well... Do you remember how you promised you'd find my father and bring him to London? It's just as well that I told not to look for him. You see, I found out who he was...

[She pauses if only because she's not sure how to continue from here.]

[lestray]

[She's so shocked, the ground beneath her trembles slightly.]

Wot?! You- you found out? You know?! [This is big! This is wild! Of course Iris is brilliant enough that she could find out by herself, but it's still such a big revelation!]

Well, who is the bloke? Do I gotta give 'im a piece o' me mind? [Gina is always, always prepared to duke it out for Iris!]

[herlockian]

[Iris notices that, yes. Now she's a bit worried about giving her more details. She'd hate to be responsible for Gina causing massive damage. Or for that to happen in the first place.

She gives her a very feeble smile.]

That's just it. You can't. He died a long time ago. Hurley must have thought it would make it harder for me to figure out the truth if he lied about that...

I B.

[grumpface]

[Construction/conversion of the bank into a casino had been well underway. Husk's been busy making sure everything goes to plan and dealing with any weirdness.

But he CAN put things on hold to help a lost child. Husk kneels down on a knee to get more at eye level with the child.]

Uh, sure. What's she look like?

[herlockian]

Oh, thank you!

[She gives him a grateful smile.]

She's about five feet and a half or so? Her hair is a similar shade to mine, and she keeps it in a bun with a band across her head. She's also wearing the loveliest red frock today!

[Of course, no such woman is actually here, but this clone sure thinks she is.]

[grumpface]

[Husk motions for other people to continue on without him for the time being before nodding to the child with a smile.]

Ready to go look for her. Name's Husk, what's yours?

[herlockian]

[She gives him a very formal curtesy using her free arm.]

Iris Wilson. It's a pleasure to meet you.

[grumpface]

[Husk is... not really all that used to such formality.]

...Not really any need to do that. Just a simple wave is fine with me. Anyway, let's start lookin' around in the plaza.

[Husk will attempt to walk beside Iris whilst on their way over there.]

[herlockian]

[If it's any consolation, real Iris is less formal? Apart from the curtseying, that just the upbringing of the day.

She has no problem with him walking next to her.]

This is so kind of you! I don't think Mummy or Daddy would be pleased if I wandered too far without a chaperone.

[grumpface]

[Husk looks away and sort of curls his wings around himself at the unneeded compliment.]

That's... 'm just makin' sure you get to your parents. Wouldn't wanna have t deal with a cryin' child of all things...

What are your parents like? What do they do?

[herlockian]

They're both the best! Daddy should be at work. He has a job in the judiciary. Mummy typically has to mind what's going on in the estate and has to go off to various social functions and meetings. That's why I was glad we had time to go out together today!

[If this sounds odd for what he knows of Reverein, that's because it is. This child may not be aware of where she really is.

Also, it's just possible to catch sight of her twin, or rather, the original Iris. Somewhere along the line she's started tailing them. Then again, you may not notice her at all. She's busy trying to figure all this out.]

I-B

[discourtesies]

[Although they've all sorted things out by now, Barok is still very much his awkward self around the ten-year-old, simply because he is adjusting to the idea of... well, everything. What he feels, how he should behave, how best to move forward.

That's true even with a mirror's removal of certain aspects of his personality, a circumstance which actually allows him to emote properly—leaving his scarred brow to lift in clear surprise and confusion over his cloaked shoulder at the girl who is quite obviously (to him) Iris, yet markedly different. And then there's the strange words that leave her lips...]

Err... your... mother?

[His memories, at least, remain as they should. But something has clearly happened here with Iris's.]

[herlockian]

[Perhaps it's good that they have gotten that all sorted, as this version of Iris knows exactly who he is. Silly girl hadn't actually looked up at the face of the tall man she was speaking to. Now, her eyes go wide with recognition.]

Oh, Uncle! Hello!

[She smiles and seems much more relaxed now that there's a recognized authority figure with her. She then nods.]

That's right. We'd gone out together, but I can't seem to find her now.

[discourtesies]

[She called him Uncle. She called him Uncle, and he's going to die.

Give him a moment to stare at her with wide eyes, his expression clearly that of a man moved, where such things are not usually so obvious in his face... although to this girl, the sight of her uncle emoting like a normal person is probably not so strange.

But after a moment, he properly grapples with the hammering of his heart and tries to comprehend what's going on so he can address the girl.]

Y-your mother is...

[He thinks of those in this world, and the possibilities he's encountered. Even if he could say it straight to Iris's face when she looks so hopeful to find her family, he can't even say it would be unlikely to find his sister-in-law.]

... not here, to my awareness. I'm afraid.

[herlockian]

[Just wait until the real one gets there...

It is rather a cruel detail for this clone to press. Even if everything else had gone ideally, it sounded as though her mother would have had trouble surviving her birth. But the copy of Iris still stares at him completely innocently, perhaps unaware herself of the problems in her story.

She gives him a small, confused frown.]

What, do you mean in this part of town? She can't be far off then, can she?

[She then smiles in the sweetest and most soul-crushing way she can.]

Shall we look for her together, Uncle?

[discourtesies]

[Oh, this is just dreadful. How is he supposed to say no to that? To those sweet cerulean eyes, looking at him so expectantly?]

Of—of course.

[A normal uncle would offer a hand for his ten-year-old niece. Somehow, he manages that, in large part thanks to the forced change in his personality. Being significantly less awkward when expressing his genuine feelings helps with that kind of thing.]

Perhaps we might start where you first noticed her absence...? [Then he might be able to locate the source of this... madness. Hopefully she won't be too distracted by the oddly centralized spots of fog he leaves behind.]

[herlockian]

[Well of course she'll take his hand, there is absolutely nothing unusual or emotionally compromising about that.

With both of her hands now full, she can't do much else but tilt her head backwards as she thinks.]

Mmmm... Yes, it was back near the shops. [Way to narrow it down.] Some of the boutiques and accessory dealers were featuring products outside as a promotion.

[And conveniently using a lot of mirrors.]

[discourtesies]

[So they begin to head that way, with his mind racing. He needs more information about what this girl believes. How should he go about this without causing further distress than what's already been suffered? Maybe that request for advice and the responses he received won't go to waste after all...]

Were you... looking for something in particular there?

[herlockian]

[She thinks for a few seconds.]

No. I wasn't, at least. If Mummy was, she didn't tell me what she was looking for. I only know that she thought it would be nice for us to spend some time together out in town today.

[Iris is so pleased as she talks about this. It seems like something special to her.]