open ⚔️ to another world

[discourtesies]

Who: Barok van Zieks & whatever unfortunate souls get involved with him
Which: Journal/Log/Interactive Dream
Where: Around a particularly tall and gloomy treehouse
What: a simple network query, trouble taking care of grapes, & a bleeding-heart-induced nightmare.
Warnings: blood and violence ig. major great ace attorney spoilers in the dream prompt.

A > Network

Has anyone found creatures here suitable for training as a mount?

[He's seen maybe like one regular horse since he's been here, and he's pretty sure it belongs to someone already. There was that reindeer, too, but it seemed rather... pitiful... and he'd rather not run the risk of stepping on any jolly red toes.]

B

[During the early parts of the month, van Zieks can be seen a short distance away from his treehouse, attending to a set of vines attached to trellises in a clearing. He's at least gotten the tools and materials he needs to take care of the plants, and the fact that it's the middle of winter hasn't deterred at least some of them from growing; already, a few small grapes have begun to appear on a handful of the vines.

The ones Barok is currently frowning at, however, look much more like they're affected by the season in the normal way. Unfortunately, his scrutiny seems to be actively withering one or two of the plants, which further aggravates him—and he folds his arms and closes his eyes, letting out a slow breath to attempt to stop the ridiculous cycle. There are as many detrimental possibilities with dreamotion as there are helpful, unfortunately. He may need some assistance to break out of that downward spiral...]

C

[The bleeding hearts are a problem Barok only hears about secondhand, throughout most of the month. Once he learns the disposition of their typical victims, however, he begins to think he's unlikely to be targeted. After all, out of everyone, why would something desperate for those sorts of emotions seek out someone as bitter and jaded as him? He doesn't account for the fact that the creatures can sense deeper feelings regardless of whether they're actually expressed.

Late in the month, van Zieks suddenly stops communicating with anyone or leaving his abode, and thus no one could see the fiery light that would mark him as possessed. Overnight, his entire treehouse freezes into an impenetrable tower, along with the man inside—but anyone who comes near will notice their dream lanterns glowing with the bleeding heart's red. The only way in is through the nightmare.

The grand hall any dreamwalkers emerge in is littered with corpses and blood—from bright red stains and those still in the process of cooling to black and brown crust and skeletons after a decade of rot. A broad-shouldered man in a hooded cloak stands hunched over, holding a sword and a scythe; behind him, a giant portrait of a handsome noble watches with a sinister smile, the glowing red of the love-hungry monster bleeding out from the canvas.

The red-coated noble in the painting yanks at a chain, causing the cloaked man to stumble a step and his hood to fall back—revealing the same gem-studded collar van Zieks wore in the last nightmare he unwittingly broadcast. The Reaper's eyes turn to the newcomer, nothing but blind hatred to be seen in his icy gaze—not even the pain of the bleeding slashes on his face and limbs, or the gunshot wounds that have torn his coat, seem to come through in his glare.

He raises his sword, though his wounds make it an unsteady movement. His voice is low and rough as he claims:]

You will not tarnish... my brother's memory...

Wildcard

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Comments

c....

[judicialassistant]

[ Susato has dealt with bleeding hearts, successfully even, but this is the first time she will have to traverse someone's dream to do it. As if seeing the ice fortress outside isn't enough to give her chills, the way her lantern glows a bloody yet familiar red is enough that she can more or less imagine what happened, and why Lord van Zieks fell into dead silence, even for him.

Common sense tells her that she should tell someone, that she should back away, but when she is sucked inside the dreamscape, things are far, far worse.

Her hand immediately moves to cover her nose, the smell of corpses rotting to varying degrees overwhelming her. She almost pukes--she wants to, but moves forward towards the familiar. The painting.

And then she sees who is standing in front of it, his beautiful coat riddled with bullet holes and his neck adorned with that familiar collar that earned her a trip all the way back to Japan. The scars on his face are fresh and bleeding, causing her to stumble back as well as she can hear the chain rattle. ]

Lord van Zieks... [ Her voice shakes, but if he's not going to see reason, she was going to have to. ] That's not why I'm here.

[discourtesies]

Lies.

[He hisses the response, his hatred nearly palpable. The Reaper takes a heavy step forward, drops of red splattering on the floor as the threat of his two blades shifts closer. For how long he spent consumed by his bitter grudge, it's all too easy to shift back into that mindset through the bleeding heart's influence. Right now, that delusion is all he can see.]

That is all your people are. Lies, and traitors... frauds who would besmirch his name... insult everything he worked for!

[judicialassistant]

[ Her eyes watched the blade and scythe carefully as he moved forward, stepping backwards again in rhythm. Her hands moved to keep her balance, feeling like she was going to slip on the blood dripping off the fresher corpses. She is deeply unsettled to be sure, and her stomach drops at his words.

Holy shit. Maybe she really is in over her head here. She starts to shake her head; she can't take those words to heart now. ]

We are not frauds. This isn't you anymore.

[ Her voice is firmer than it has any right to be, though she does almost stutter, as if maybe she's not so sure that he left that mindset behind as far as she thought. ]

You admitted it, did you not? That you saw it within him. [ She doesn't need to say his name, but context will make it clear she means Ryunosuke Naruhodo. ] That unwavering look in his eyes. That look you'll see behind you in that painting, right now.

[discourtesies]

I allowed myself to be deceived... to fall victim to that man's pretence like I did once before, though I should have known.

[His glare darkens and his jaw clenches, his ire no longer pointed only forward. He hates them, there can be no doubt—but he hates himself perhaps more. How could he have let this happen?]

To think I would ever let down my guard around a Nipponese... it is unforgivable. And now you threaten to brand him forever a murderer, to bring the hatred of the entire country upon him.

[His eyes remain fixed on Susato, rather than to turn back to the image of his brother—and to be frank, he wouldn't be able to face Klint's gaze, not with his failures, and there's a distinct twist to his expression that's more than simple physical pain. The red light within Barok's chest flares as he straightens to his full height, though his shoulders still tremble. He can't show weakness now, not when something so important is on the line. He must defend his family.]

I can see your duplicity now. I will not make the same mistakes again.

C

[chippedsoul]

[ Kazuma has only been by Barok's home in passing, not caring to stop and bring attention to him, of course. The one time he does stop in front of it, is when he sees it had turned into something of a frozen fortress of sorts. Barok may have chilly disposition, but this is definitely not normal.

"Someone else can deal with it." Was his first thought. He's not required to lift a finger for this man. But now that he's seen the state of his home, it's hard for him to ignore it. We can't have this fool be succumb so easily by such trickery, is what Kazuma thought.

One step closer and he was suddenly pulled into the nightmare within. The smell of blood immediately reaches his nose first, stirring something primal within him. Death and corpse surround him, muffled voices screaming in agony somewhere in the distance. Claws swipes a the nearby corpses blocking his path, a snake's tail sweeping behind him. The strength and familiarity of this nightmare pushes his form so far as to make him appear as he was a few months back, like a giant snake demon.] Ugh. [It's a struggle to hold back temptation, the hunger, the rage he felt. He shakes his head, standing up straight and pushes himself forward. He's already committed to do something instead of nothing. Damn this bastard.

He comes to halt, confronted by the hooded figure and the portrait behind him. That portait of his brother that hangs in Barok's office. Though something clearly isn't right about it, neither is the hooded figure. His eyes narrow as it's revealed to be Barok, covered in various wounds, some still fresher than others. Familial love, so powerful that it's destroying him. He shifts his stance, seeing Barok-like figure raise his sword.]

And what memory exactly are you trying to protect? The lie that he was an innocent man? ["Helping"]

[discourtesies]

[The appearance of this devil within his family's estate would be enough to set off van Zieks's grudge. It's so, so easy for the bleeding heart to turn his former hatred against Genshin to the man's son, and he growls the name as if it's the most horrible thing to ever leave his mouth.]

Asogi.

[Ten years of pain, grief and anger come to the forefront. The truth placed before him is immediately dismissed in the wake of those feelings. His grip tightens on both of the weapons in his hands, frost spreading out along the walls.]

How dare you step into these halls. Even were your words not abhorrent, your presence alone would sully Klint's legacy by mere proximity, demon.

[chippedsoul]

[Heat spreads from where Kazuma stood. Smalls sparks appearing as if the air was trying to catch fire. It's hard not to bare his fangs at the man, channeling his anger and hatred at him upon recognition. I lost my father because of you. How dare you act as if you have suffered.

But condemning each other will get them no where, no matter how much Kazuma wanted to take this opportunity to make him pay. Deep breaths.]

Believe me, I'd rather be anywhere but here right now, but leaving you in this sorry state would likely lead to further consequences. [He glances up at the portrait for a moment, pretending to be this beloved brother. Was that his actual target?] Your brother's legacy had already been sullied before I or even my father was ever involved. He only did what none of your people would do, pursue the truth. I know you know what sort of man my father truly was, not these lies you feed yourself.

[discourtesies]

Do not presume I will allow myself to fall prey to the false words of an Asogi again. Never... again.

[He points his sword as if in accusation, and the glowing portrait seems to cackle silently in delight within its frame.]

And now, I can see... the son of that monster has become a monster in his own right. That same urge to kill is clear within you. The only difference between you... is that Genshin was capable of hiding it.

B

[burnbrighter]

[ Thoma comes and goes through the treehouses fairly often, and though he’s spotted the vines before, he’s yet to meet their owner. He has to admit a curiosity as to who would be growing grapevines in particular, especially since Diluc has mentioned in passing the possibility of entering into the wine business with one of their fellow dreamers, and when he spots the absolute bear of a man tending them, well, he’s sure not what Thoma expected.

He also seems to be having a bit of trouble. Thankfully Thoma is pretty well-versed in the effects that dreamotion can have on plants, and he might as well make himself useful. He steps over, clearing his throat and offering a little wave. ]

Hey there, need a hand?

[discourtesies]

[His look remains somewhat sour as he turns his attention away from the failing vines towards the stranger, even if he may not be opposed to receiving any offered help. However, even if he is somewhat dressed down from his typical Victorian attire for the sake of attending the garden of sorts, his stiff bearing still gives off the air of someone who tends towards being unpleasantly stuffy.]

That will depend on whether you have any expertise in magically sustaining plant life.

[He has no problem with learning together or whatever, but these are not test subjects. He must have perfection in his final product.]

[burnbrighter]

[ Sour expressions make for sour grapes, Mister Barok!!

For whatever it might be worth, Thoma is hardly put off by his demeanor. He’s used to dealing with Inazuman politicians and merchants who think themselves far more valuable than they are, so a stuffy Victorian is almost familiar territory. ]

I like to think I’m pretty good at it. I’ve been helping out in one of the local flower shops pretty much since I got here, and I’ve learned quite a bit. Plus I have a small herb garden of my own.

[discourtesies]

[Oh no... then the grapes will never be good...

Though van Zieks only has the man's word to judge that expertise, it's probably better than nothing. Probably.

He can always acquire more seeds if it comes down to it, he guesses. Ugh. If only his chosen vineyards and their workers could be transported here...]

Then I suppose you may be able to offer some advice on how to prevent further withering.

B

[hearthwarming]

[ It really is a small dream world, it seems, when Ori recognizes the name that Diluc mentions as his potential business partner in starting a winery. There's a slightest feeling of awkwardness when she recalls how they had met, but seeing as she would like to lend a hand at least in the horticultural aspect of this venture... perhaps it would be a good opportunity to clear some things up with Barok regarding the reindeer he had helped with delivering presents two months ago...

Or... she could simply pretend that it didn't happen, or at least refrain from bringing it up until he does. Yes, that seems like a sound plan.

It's only a matter of time, as much of her routine involves running around trying to help other residents of Reverein, until she happens upon the clearing in which Barok is beginning to grow grapevines one afternoon. ]

Oh...! Hello.

[ Statuesque as Barok is, it's hard not to recognize him immediately, even fussing over the vines as he is. It occurs to her, though, that she's never actually met him as herself, as she made sure to deliver his courtesy gift basket in secret back then. ]

Um... Mister Barok, right? I'm Ori. I— I'm a friend of Diluc's. Do you need help with your plants...?

[discourtesies]

[Van Zieks isn't unused to people approaching him with some trepidation, and even aside from his reputation back home, he can't imagine he's ever perceived as... particularly friendly. He isn't in the habit of curbing that response in any way, given how that frigid exterior has been useful to him for so long. The ominous question that he asks after a brief pause of examining her remarkable appearance probably won't help, either.]

Would that be short for Oriphi, by chance?

[Her answer will determine how much he will be judging her.

... that part will not determine if he accepts the offer, though.]

[hearthwarming]

[ Maybe it's because she her vantage point was a bit different as a reindeer, but he sure does seem a lot more intimidating this time around. The appraising look he gives her causes Ori to stand a little taller. ]

I, um... yes, that's me.

[ She chuckles nervously. ]

I hope you received your gift basket in one piece, haha...

[discourtesies]

[The same one indeed, then. Not what he expected, to say the least, but then he has found many basic assumptions tested while in this strange land. Purple horns are likely the least worrisome among those kinds of surprises.]

You may be assured that it did.

[... you gonna say thanks, or...? No? Ok.]

Are you knowledgeable in the care of crops, then?

B

[mychosenpath]

[Ryunosuke is no professional when it comes to plants-- but over the past few months he has been gradually becoming more and more comfortable growing his own tea leaves and fresh herbs after an impulse decision to experiment further with the ability to alter the taste of things with emotions. So seeing the prosecutor have a rough time with them makes him want to see if he can't help a little.

...what he can say with some certainty is that whatever those vines are taking in right now? They don't seem to like very much.]

You know, your feelings can affect the taste of the grapes too.

[He tries to imagine what grapes infused with van Zieks emotions would taste like and... somehow he gets the feeling it would be something dark and bitter. Kind of like coffee. At least-- based on the look he's giving them now.]

[discourtesies]

[The quiet noise van Zieks makes in the back of his throat almost like a sigh will tell Ryunosuke that he's not looking forward to solving that problem. He shakes his head, wondering if he's really suited for this sort of thing.]

... another variable I will have to take into account.

[Why does it matter how he feels! Isn't wanting good grapes enough for these things??]

Perhaps I should plant more in the hopes of achieving an acceptable result at some point within the next decade.

[mychosenpath]

There was a party held when we first arrived. People were playing a game where they would use emotions to change the flavor of chicken. Sure some of it probably tasted... less than ideal... but there could have also been some that turned out interesting in a good way.

[At least grapes felt like a much safer medium than chicken. But then again... possibilities remain all but limitless here, probably. He's sure the grapes will (probably) figure out that van Zieks is more bark than bite.]

You could probably do the same thing if you wanted to. At the very least, I'm sure that with a bit of time they'll come around. But in the meantime... you might be on to something unique.

A

[roseofmay]

[Beatrix can't believe she's using the journal communication network, or whatever one wants to call it, for this, but...]

Chocobos.

[As if that'll answer all of his questions for him. Zidane was able to conjure up Boco, after all. Who says he can't just conjure up more. Or she could, she supposes, if she was willing to put in that kind of effort.]

[discourtesies]

[Like, he appreciates the answer, sort of, but—]

Explain.

[roseofmay]

[She knew he'd want elaboration. Evidently Beatrix just really despises the journal thing.]

Chocobos are birds from my world. Large, yellow—predominantly. I have heard that some can fly, but most tend to be ground. They are loyal and kind, protective. It was not unheard of that members of the knighthood have used them for cavalry units.

A

[rokubro]

Haven't tried yet, but I have been thinking about the giant beetles when they get bigger.

[discourtesies]

[Van Zieks has so many questions.]

Do you have any evidence that they will reach such a size?

[rokubro]

The one that's been hanging around my place is about the size of a small pony right now, but I think it can grow bigger. Been sleeping a lot since it's winter, but I'm sure once spring hits it'll be eating good.