#Edited tag: I found out that Jason does get out of the situation but is not saved by the family so… yeah.

[betterthanbatman1]

I am once again losing my mind over these panels

[anymal28]

@bonesby I probably did this wrong, but here ya go

🎱 - 0, I literally have no finished works to even post

🍓 - I have not posted any works yet. But basically no one was writing the stories I was looking for. I also have great ideas and suck at making characters for said ideas.

🌵 - Might be my own👀 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0OueUGpDtDuRAFljBrZJtn?si=Moy5y7aRSguNXYxFoQpDaA&pi=u-JFkaI__xQo2Y

🕯 - Friends works: 9/10. I like helping them out and being one of the first to read their works, plus they're both stupid good at writing

My Works: 2/10, I'm my own worst enemy. I recently went back to edit a wip and am very close to deleting the whole thing and rewriting it.

🛼 - 🔫🗡🔪🥷💣

🥑 - @bonesby & @louisapennyfeather2021

🥤- 0KKULTiC : We Would Be Savage series on ao3

inexperiencedandconfused8 on ao3

GoAwayOlivia : Jason Todd: The Not-So-Outlaw on ao3

I have many suggestions

💌 - 0 actually

🌻 - Literally anyone who follows me

🐇 - If yall ever catch me writing reader inserts, just know I did it as a joke and Hell must've froze over

🧃 - I am asthmatic

🎲 - Lack of motivation

🍄 - NOT A SHIP, but Dick Grayson 100% eats cheerios by picking them up with his tongue and Jason hardcore judges him for it even tho Jason does the same thing with chips cause he refuses to get his fingers cheesy.

🧸 - Talk to me and dont stop talking to me no matter how awkward things get. I'm very bad at keeping up communications.

🪐 - One of my goats finally had her babies, I finally get to bring my other goat home from the hospital, I dont have to bottle feed anything yet.

📚 - This prompt

🍬 - I'm not educated enough for this

🔪 - The explicit details on the different sections of the human spine and how all of them function and which parts of the body would be affected depedning on which part of the spine was damaged. Also retail store security tags.

🦷 - You can only heat something up twice before it starts to make you sick

❄️ - Literally anything found family, I'm such a sucker for that. Anyone could write it good honestly.

🌿 - Change the space you're writing in. If you're writing in your bedroom, go to a different room. Change up the environment.

🥐 - "crazy, I was crazy once..."

🏜 - Have not received any cause have not posted any

🍦 - I GUESS he is loyal, he got better at communicating, and hes not AS horrible as before

🥝 - Not really, its more of a waste of breath to lie a lot. I did lie to my Grandpa about my goat's vet bill

🦋 - The fucking quote of "Farming teaches you how to be totally responsible and completely useless"

🦴 - Literally anything found family. Im a sucker for that

🍅 - The character's responses and reactions need to change and be more thought out for the scene. It doesn't match who they are. The entire situation is written okay, but definitely not the best and can be improved.

🐚 - In story writing, surprises are great. Irl, no.

🪲 - [ Hiding and watching in the shadows of the setting sun, he could make Alchemy, Arachne, and Wendigo. With the sight of them came another pang of worry. Who would help heal them when they got injured on patrol? Granted all of them were very careful, but slip ups happen. There were one or two other vigilantes and allies that could help, but he worried they wouldn’t be able to do much when it came to the bigger, more serious stuff. And Arachne? He hoped she wouldn’t do anything stupid. Maybe Alchemy could keep a close eye on her. ]

☁️ - Literally the name I've had since the dawn of time. Its just a play on the word "animal".

🐝 - @bonesby : the bestest person someone could have in their life. Literally you have not won anything if you dont have someone like them.

@louisapennyfeather2021 : Everyone needs someone like them in their corner. They're like the devil on my shoulder except they're constantly trying to keep me from doing dumb shit.

🌸 - Too many. Pics below. In order: Dakota, Charlie, Octavian, Augustus, Tommy, Dillion, Ponk, Maverick, Nora, Oakapi. I have more goats if anyone's interested💀

🎨 - I dont even have any rn, I wouldn't be able to find the ones I used to love, but I know it was Percy Jackson.

🧩 - A lot. Specifically certain smut tags. Porn without plot. Too many smut tags. Incest. There's a lot, and I usually dont know until I see it

Writers Truth & Dare Ask Game

🎱 ⇢ post your AO3 total stats  🍓 ⇢ how did you get into writing fanfiction?  🌵 ⇢ share the link to a playlist you love 🕯️ ⇢ on a scale from 1 to 10, how much do you enjoy editing? why is that? 🛼 ⇢ describe your latest wip with five emojis 🥑 ⇢ you accidentally killed somebody, which mutual(s) do you text for help? 🥤 ⇢ recommend an author or fanfic you love 💌 ⇢ how many unread emails do you have right now?  🌻 ⇢ tag someone you appreciate but don't talk to on a regular basis 🐇 ⇢ do you prefer writing original characters, reader inserts, or a mix of both?  🧃 ⇢ share some personal lore you never posted about before 🎲 ⇢ what stops you from writing more in your free time?  🍄 ⇢ share a head canon for one of your favourite ships or pairings 🧸 ⇢ what's the fastest way to become your mutual? 🪐 ⇢ name three good things going on in your life right now 📚 ⇢ what's the last thing you wrote down in your notes app?  🍬 ⇢ post an unpopular opinion about a popular fandom character 🔪 ⇢ what's the weirdest topic you researched for a writing project? 🦷 ⇢ share some personal wisdom or a life hack you swear on ❄️ ⇢ what's your dream theme/plot for a fic, and who would write it best? 🌿 ⇢ give some advice on writer's block and low creativity 🥐 ⇢ name one internet reference that will always make you laugh  🏜️ ⇢ what's your favourite type of comment to receive on your work? 🍦 ⇢ name three good things about a character you hate 🥝 ⇢ do you lie a lot? what's the most recent lie you told? 🦋 ⇢ share something that has been on your heart and mind lately  🦴 ⇢ is there a piece of media that inspires your writing?  🍅 ⇢ give yourself some constructive criticism on your own writing 🐚 ⇢ do you like or dislike surprises? 🪲 ⇢ add 50 words to your current wip and share the paragraph here ☁️ ⇢ what made you choose your username? 🐝 ⇢ tag your biggest supporter(s) and say one nice thing about them 🌸 ⇢ do you have any pets? if you do, post some pictures of them 🎨 ⇢ link your favourite piece of fanart and explain why you like it 🧩 ⇢ what will make you click away from a fanfiction immediately?

[rosesgonerogue]

I didn’t so much fall in love - It kicked me in the face Chapter Seven

Tim shouldn’t have felt nervous about his fitting, but his stomach had been in a state of unrest since the moment he walked in and saw her in the kitchen. Just seeing her brought a whole barrage of emotions he didn’t know what to do with.

“Listen to Alfred,” she reminded her son as she pulled off her apron - not that he would need the reminder. 

“Shall we?” Tim asked, offering his arm. Marinette didn’t miss the blush dusting his cheeks, but she also did her best not to draw attention to it, thanks to the matching one she was sporting. 

They walked for a few moments in silence until he said, “So do I need to be blindfolded, or do I get to see the suit so far?” 

“You get to see it. Now is when you tell me if you want me to change anything. It’s not done, by any means, but you’ll get the general idea.” 

He had practically spent his entire life in suits at this point, so in theory Tim should have known what he wanted, or even had some idea of what he was looking for - and he did, if he was just picking one off of a rack. But this was MDC. Of course it would be per-

“Um, I know you’re the fashion expert, but don’t most suits have a lining? Or something like that?” 

“The lining is going to be a surprise. Right now we’re looking at the fit, the style… Basically this is when you tell me if you hate it,” she said, handing him the garments before leaving the room. 

Obviously the clothes were unfinished. The pant legs were unhemmed, the suitcoat’s seams were exposed inside, and there was untrimmed thread everywhere. But as Tim put it on, there was a warmth that accompanied it. Something about the suit just felt right. He wore a stupidly satisfied smile when he let Marinette back in. 

She immediately began circling him, eyeing the whole thing critically, occasionally commanding him to raise his arms, or sit down, or something similar. Finally her face cleared. “I only see a few minor adjustments that need to be made. Do you have any requests, or notes?” 

“Well, I would like it to be lined,” he teased. “But other than that, this is the best suit I’ve ever owned.” 

“That’s what I like to hear,” she said with a smile.

Tim deliberated for a second before saying, “Listen, Marinette. I don’t know if Bruce brought this up to you, but I - we would like to invite you to the Wayne Gala. Childcare is provided for any who wish it, and it’s a masquerade, so you could potentially meet some new clients without compromising your anonymity.”

It wasn’t what Tim wanted to say - the words “date” and “plus one” kept pounding through his mind. 

“I’ll have to figure out a dress, but I would love to,” Marinette said with yet another smile. She was quiet for a moment, looking down before she met his eyes again, hers filled with resolve. “Before the gala, though, would you… You can say no, and this will stay strictly professional. But would you like to go on a date with me? It would just be to coffee, since I don’t have anyone to watch Leo, but-” 

“Yes!” Tim said eagerly, too eagerly. He cleared his throat before saying in a more subdued tone, “That would be wonderful. I would love to join you.” 

If Tim thought her smiles were bright before, now they were positively blinding. “Perfect. It’s a date.” 

************

Marinette couldn’t help but feel the slightest bit shy after that, but as her hands deftly pinned his suit, every fiber of her being sang with excitement. She had to keep it professional, though! At the moment she was on a job. 

Before she could say something and promptly put her foot in her mouth, she sensed a presence, confirmed by the sharp sound of a backpack hitting the floor. It seemed Damian was back from school, then. In a way she appreciated the presence of someone else in the room, but any relief he supplied was killed when he had to go and open his mouth. 

“So you’ve decided to use Alfred as a babysitter now?” he asked in that cold, superior tone of his. 

“Sir Pennyworth offered, and I gratefully accepted,” Marinette said, carefully pinning exactly where Tim’s suit coat needed to be taken in. “I can assure you that my aim is not to take advantage of anyone.” 

Based on her research, Damian Wayne hadn’t had an easy life. There was little to no information on what his life had been like with his mother, but he resembled a wild animal, suspicious, snarling, and scarred. He may finally be comfortable with his family, but it was clear he felt that Marinette was a threat, and it was doubly clear that he would use whatever means necessary to drive her away. 

But that was no excuse for what he said next. 

“He’s a valuable tool, isn’t he? People probably jump at the opportunity to give more than the asking price to the poor single mother with the adorable child. Or were you legitimately unable to keep his father? You-”

Damian was cut off by Marinette’s hand slapping loudly across his cheek. She shouldn't have moved so quickly, it was almost beyond the average human’s capability, but she couldn’t find it in herself to care. 

“I don’t care what you say about me, I’ve heard it all before. But don’t you dare bring Leo into this. Since you’re so hell-bent on tormenting me with this, I’ll tell you. Leo doesn’t have a father.” 

Tim felt his heart stop at the look in her eyes, equally feral and wounded. Meanwhile Damian seemed… confused. It had to be at that very moment that Jason and Dick stumbled in from taking care of a hostage situation. Dick made to greet everyone, but Jason stopped him, taking in the icy atmosphere. 

“That’s nonsense, one way or another he has to have a father,” Damian sneered, losing a bit of his icy facade. 

“No, Leo does not have a father. There was a man once that took more from me than should be allowed - he took until he broke me. Leo is not that man’s son, he was the only thing the universe could have possibly given me to make up for what was lost. That man has nothing to do with Leo.” 

“Damian, you need to apologize to Miss Dupain-Cheng,” Dick said, face stormy now that he had somewhat of a grasp on the situation. 

Marinette simply held up a hand. “There’s no need, Mr. Grayson. I’ve been called everything he insinuated before, and that was just by people who were supposed to be friends.  But mark my words, Damian Wayne. If you ever insult my  son again, there will be hell to pay.” 

The silence and tension in the room was palpable, and Marinette fought to push down the little part of her that found their fear both satisfying and amusing. Instead she straightened her cardigan and said, “Each of your suits are over there. Go try them on.” 

If she had to hide her smirk from seeing all three of them fleeing with their suits, well, that was her business.

Taglist: 

@ii-fox-demon @queen-in-a-flower-crown @novaloptr @saphiraazure2708 @iamabrownfox @smolplantmum @redhoodedtoad @loysydark @slytheringinger300 @finallyaniguana @brokenwordsarehard2 @abrx2002 @mystery-5-5 @zalladane @moonlightstar64  @marinettepotterandplagg @black-streak @purplesundaze @maribat-is-lifeblood @the-fusionist @river9noble @chocolatecatstheron @darkthunder1589 @throneoffirebreathingbitchqueen @dast218 @k-poplunardreams @meanids @changelinggarden @ladybug-182 @pawsitivelymiraculous @zotinha456 @tumbling-down-hills-and-stuff @somebodyspersephone @spider-person95 @zestyzealot @toodaloo-kangaroo @kokotaru @kurogaya913 @tis-i-beanbandit  @annapointone

Note: We're getting closer and closer to the end, but this might not be the last that we see of Leo! I keep getting more and more ideas about what he would be like when he was older, so don't be surprised if this fic becomes a series. Last chapter I had an issue with the tagging, so sorry if that was an issue for y’all. As always, just let me know if you want to be added to the list! Thanks for reading, let me know what you thought! 

Edit: FYI, I really debated on whether or not to put in Marinette’s little scuffle with Damian, but I ultimately decided that it’s a good character building moment, blah blah blah. (It’s self indulgent, like this entire fic. I thought it was an interesting moment, so it stayed.)

[katehuntington]

2020, 1st edition Disclaimer: ‘Kate Huntington’s Author & Fanfiction Recommendations’ is a platform for writers, to show appreciation for their work and expand their audience. I do not claim to be the author of these stories, neither do I own them. Read each writer’s warnings carefully, most of them are rated +18. 

Without further ado, here is my list of recommendations.

One shots 

“While You Sleep” - written by @foreverwayward​ Fluff - Dean Winchester - 617 words       A heartwarming little fic about Dean living the domesticated life we all wish he could have. The writer has a very clever way of storytelling and the end might come as a surprise, only adding to the emotion it already brought along.

“Imagine” - written by @pennydrabbles​ Fluff - Dean x Reader - 800 words      ‘Imagine calling Dean after a bad day and saying you miss him,’ says the header of this marvelous little story. It’s soothing, with strong descriptions, yet never over the top. Simplicity isn’t necessarily a bad word. It takes skill to not overy describe a scene and let the tale be told by the personal emotion of the reader. The author is able to do this with such elegance, that you actually feel Dean’s comfort.

“Heartbeats” - written by @there-must-be-a-lock​ Fluff - Dean x Castiel - 930 words      Castiel is fascinated by the human heart, but doesn’t quite understand it, until he becomes human himself. I’ll start by saying that I don’t ship Dean and Cas together, but I do appreciate the people who do. What this little piece of art does is incredible, however, because while I was reading, I found myself rooting for them. The writer does a great job by using the literal human heart as a backbone of this story. Intriguing and very well executed.

“Everything That’s Yet To Come” - written by @fictionalabyss​ Fluff - Dean x Reader - 812 words      Dean experiences what the future beholds, with the people who he wishes could be there. The author took me by the hand through this moving little one shot, which feels like a collection of greatest hits and wishes come true. It offers peace and closure not only for the older Winchester brother, but for the reader as well. Beautiful piece of writing.

“Take A Drunk Girl Home” - written by @amanda-teaches​ Fluff - Dean x Reader - 1869 words      Dean taking care of others; it’s his nature and shows what a kind soul he truly is. The situation sketched here is no exception, and it’s softer than one can imagine. The pace is steady and the balance between fluff and comedy is just right. A lovely read.

“New Beginnings” - written by @our-jensen-ackles-love​ Fluff - Dean x Reader - 1665 words      New Year’s Eve; a new start, a new life and plenty of reason to celebrate. A lovely ‘feel good’ story that makes us forget about the monsters, pain and loss Supernatural is known for. The level of fluff is equivalent to cuddling with puppies.

“When He Cries” - written by @revengingbarnes​ Angst/fluff - Dean x Reader - 1894 words       When the woman who Dean loves falls victim during a case, the hunter has trouble dealing with the aftermath. And, boy... Does that hurt to witness. This is one of the most breathtaking stories I have stumbled on. The realism that is used to describe the gruesome and horrific angst, the emotion that is laced in every word, had me clutching my chest while reading. It’s is a beautiful piece of art.

“Nobody” - written by @soaringeag1e​ Angst - Dean x Reader - 2561 words      This one shot reminds us why we should never stay angry with a loved one and let a fight unresolved, because what if something bad happens and we won’t have the chance to make it right? The writer gives a great sense to that fear and having to watch Dean go through this nightmare is truly heartbreaking. 

“The Demon Inside You” - written by @foreverwayward​ Smut/angst - Demon!Dean x Reader - 4375 words       Curing Dean from the demon that he has become proves to be difficult when he’s so hard to resist. What else is hard to resist, is this beautiful pitch black one shot. I don’t read Demon!Dean fiction often, because it still feels foreign to see the character who I love so much turn into something evil. This however, is so gripping and well written, that the darkness swallows up the beholder. Rough, hot, sad, narcissistic, all these ingredients packed up in one hell of a story.

“Curves And Edges” - written by @kittenofdoomage​ Smut/fluff/angst - Dean x Reader - 4375 words       This equally sweet, sexy, funny and sad story is a big shout out to all women who think they don’t meet the beauty standards and feel like they will never be good enough to get noticed. It is one thing to replace a name with Y/N and call it a reader’s insert; it’s a gift to make every person reading this feels like they are the character in this story. The author handles every woman’s insecurities with grace, making her words both relatable and soothing. Her spot on version of Dean reminds us that we are all beautiful, desired and unique.

“Hold Her Tight” - written by @waywardbaby​ Fluff/smut - Dean x Reader - 2955 words     ‘A story of a deep need to feel someone close to you’, is how the author describes her work. I couldn’t have said it better, because this one shot isn’t about sex; it’s about love making, and there’s a difference. What I also appreciate, is that Y/N takes the time to pamper herself. We all deserve some self care.

“Watch Your F!cking Mouth!” - written by @impala-dreamer​ Smut/comedy - Dean x Reader - 1984 words       Dean falls under a literal curse, and it’s the most fun I’ve had in a long time. I was wheezing, couldn’t breathe and died laughing. It’s astonishing how the writer can juggle comedy and sex without the two taking each other down. An uplifting read.

“Thank God For Sexual Frustration” - written by @winchester-fantasies​ Smut - Dean x Reader - 4398 words       God had nothing to do with writing this sinful story; we can thank the author for that. When Y/N is on a dry spell that has her frustrated, Dean helps her out in the best way imaginable. Delicious smut served in three courses, because we all know Dean keeps his lady satisfied.

Series:

“Life For Rent” - written by @winchest09​ Smut/angst/fluff - Mobster!Dean x Escort!Reader  - WIP      This amazing series follows an experienced, smart and resilient escort, who is ruled by contracts, money and aliases. When Dean becomes her client, he makes it his mission to understand what this interesting woman is hiding.       Conspiracies, deceat, crime. A strong family bond, blossoming love, oh, not to mention the sex. This series is intriguing beyond imagination and certainly not just another mobster fanfiction. The writing is smart and I could tell from the first paragraph that it’s loaded with hints and foreshadowing, but I couldn’t pick them out. This triggers a curiosity like an itch I can’t quite scratch away until I finish reading this story. And so I wait eagerly and drop everything the second a new chapter comes out.  An absolute must read!

“Findings” - written by @kathaswings​ Angst/smut/fluff - Dean x Reader - finished. Update: Sadly, this series is no longer online      This story starts out with what seems to be a routine demon hunt, until Dean and his brother find a frightened five year old survivor amongst the blood and corpses. Keeping the smart little Mackenzie safe and getting her back to her older sister proves to be difficult, because this case is a whole lot bigger than they anticipated and is likely to change their lives forever.      This is one of my favorite Supernatural series and I revisited it recently. The overall story arc is a mystery I just had to unravel and I couldn’t put it down if I wanted to. The bond between Dean and Mackenzie is so precious. Writing a child isn’t easy. I’ve read plenty of books and seen plenty of films in which the maturity the creators added wasn’t natural, but this author handles Mac’s dialogue amazingly well. What’s also interesting is the jumps from point of view between Dean and Y/N, giving very personal perspectives on the gripping story.

“When You Least Expect It” - written by @coffee-obsessed-writer​ Fluff/angst/smut - Jensen Ackles x Musician!Reader - WIP      This gorgeously written slow burn series kicks off when Jensen visits the idyllic town of Seaside. After a bad breakup he keeps his mind occupied with the organisation of a music festival, hoping to find a musician that fits the vibe he has in mind. He meets a spirited, undiscovered performer, not only her voice catching him by surprise. A friendship blossoms, with potential to grow into something more, but will their past allow the love they feel for each other?      Talking about an epic love story, but it’s so much more than that. The music that plays such an important factor, the setting that is Seaside. The fabulous supporting characters Bri, Rob, Jason and Jared, the wardrobe, not to mention the wonderful little gems and details that this author weaved into the story, showing how much love she has put into it. This is without a shadow of a doubt my favorite RPF I’ve come across.

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed the work of the authors above, don’t be afraid to let them know. I’m sure they will appreciate it. Feel free to share!

If you have any suggestions or would like a tag in the future, drop a request in my inbox or send me a message.

Love, Kate

‘Kate Huntington’s Author & Fanfiction Recommendations’ taglist: @adoptdontshoppets​ @fangirlxwritesx67​ @idksupernatural​ @indecisive20something​ @tranquility-or-chaos​ @winchest09​ @wingedcatninja​

[thorsthot]

♡thorsthot’s writing challenge♡ 5k edition

yooo! so the first time I did this, I was at 2.5k followers back in 2018. 2020 we at 5k baby!!! but no deadass, I'm very grateful, especially for the people who have still been here even when I'm being an asshole. 

I found it really fun when I first did this. I got to read fics that I normally would never read. Even though I don’t read fanfic now, I still want to show appreciation whenever I get the chance. And what better way than to host a writing challenge?? under the cut you’ll find the rules, and the various prompts to choose from!

Deadass, just have fun! (and lets hope this doesn’t flop lol) if there’s any questions, feel free to ask :) reblog this to boost, if you’d like

♡ rules ♡

gotta be following me - let me know if you’re posting from a side blog

YOU CAN WRITE FOR ANY CHARACTER IN MY GUIDELINES :)) - (It does not have to only be mcu characters but yes, you can write for Tony, Loki, Nat, Wanda, etc)

I suggest writing outside of the mcu; but it is your choice

no, you cannot write Peter Parker smut, idc whether or not he’s 18

if you're writing smut PLS BE 18+ baby 

also, no dark!fics, non-con, in*est, etc

two people per prompt so first come first serve - each person can have at most 2 prompts but it’s not required.

if you’d like to write more than one fic, you can!

word minimum is 700 words; there is no word or chapter maximum 

has to be a reader insert

♡ formatting + tags ♡

fics should include, a word count, warnings, and your prompt

if you’d like, you can add a summary (it’ll help me when making the masterlist)

for the love of all things holy, please, add the ‘read more’ function to the fics. 

must tag me in the fic + use the tag #thorsthotfive and #thorsthotchallenge (so that I can find it if it gets lost in my notifs!)

♡ how to + what happens when you enter ♡

send me a message or ask highlighting which prompt(s) you’re going to use and the character you’re writing about

for example; “movie dialogue #4 w/ wade wilson” or, “situational #7 w/ bucky”, etc

when you enter: you’ll get a reblog (likely more than one) + a paragraph of feedback that highlights what I love about what you wrote

you’ll also be on the special 5k writing challenge masterlist placed within my own masterlists.

send me a link as well, if I don’t reblog/notice the fic!

there's no deadline to enter, but there's a deadline to post

deadline - March 16st 2020

♡ prompts ♡

situational (au/trope) -

Oh No! There’s Only ONE Bed! 

Stranger In a Coffee Shop

‘Damsel in Distress’ 

Enemies to Lovers (@yournonlocalpoc w/ Jason Todd + d.4)

Friends to Lovers (@tonictransistor w/ Stephen Strange + md.4)

Soulmate AU (@the-wordsmiths-fabrications w/ Thor)

Fake Dating (@I-jus-wanna-writehappy w/ Arthur Curry + d.5)

Noir Detective AU

Apocalypse AU (@thortopia w/ Thor + d.6)

Wow! The Scary Man in the Woods is actually a Sweetheart (@pruemania w/ Thor)

Vampire AU

Bodyguard AU

Character Death

Monster/Alien Fuck Fest

dialogue - 

“Do you love him?” (@sidehowriting w/ Thor)

“You’re the love and light of my life and I can’t wait to spend eternity with you.”

“At least take me out to dinner first.”

“Will you stay awake with me? I can’t sleep.”(@yournonlocalpoc w/ Jason Todd + s.4)

“You trust me? Don’t you?” (@I-jus-wanna-writehappy w/ Arthur Curry + s.7)

“We’re gonna have a baby.” (@thortopia w/ Thor + s.6)

“Yes, my lord.”

“Do you believe in aliens?”

“It’s not what it looks like!”

“It’s all your fault.”

“I’ve never been scared a day in my life.”

“I don’t love you anymore.”

“Don’t argue with me today.”

“Do you ever shut up?”

movie dialogue - 

“It's fucking over, us, this is no joke. I don't think we should see each other any more.”

“Now take me to jail.”

“I didn’t want to get blood on your floor.”

“You met me at a very strange time in my life.” (@tonictransistor w/ Stephen Strange + md.4)

“What’s the last thing you remember?”

“How can you go through life pretending that you’re happy?” (@daydreams-and-shortattentionspan w/ Steve Rogers)

“But this is life. This isn’t a movie”

“They say it hurts less if it’s a surprise.”

“We make a good team. Right?”

“They’ll kill you for helping me.”

“I’ve been a bad, bad girl.”

“Now, you start opening up your personal life to me and tell me your husband/wife won't be home for hours.”

“Are we getting married tomorrow?”

“I gave you everything. You gave it all away.”

song prompts -

Candyman - Christina Aguilera

The Way - Ariana Grande ft. Mac Miller

Do U Dirty - Kehlani

One Night Only (Disco Ver.) - Dreamgirls Soundtrack

Gambit Rogue Delight - Sylar

Dance For You - Beyonce

Whore - In This Moment

Playing Games - Summer Walker ft. Bryson Tiller

You Know I’m No Good - Amy Winehouse (@daydreams-and-shortattentionspan w/ Bucky Barnes)

Cyber Sex - Doja Cat

Love Song - Lana Del Rey

Eyelids - PVRIS

Baby - Clean Bandit ft. Marina & Luis Fonsi

Ma Chérie - Palace Royale ft. Kellin Quinn

[brokenwordsarehard]

Hamilton as Maribat

 Helloooooo, so I have seen other people do Maribat x Hamilton, so I have made character dot points and whatnot (I have posted this on one of my other blogs ages ago but I have heavily edited it and changed it, so I decided to post it here instead)  

- As a musical obsessed idiot, what about jasonette as “Hamilton”?????? Anyone ?? Like I don’t read it really watch Batman or dc, like except when it was on tv and I was bored (no offence to dc fans) so I only really know the characters through wiki and fanfic what a character is like, So if I mess up the characters and it isn’t like what they are at all, I’m sorry dc fans!!!! (I’m only familiar with the Miraculous characters) So onto the characters!!! (Ps in this Jason ain’t going to die from the joker as a teen and be brought back to life unless you want to, I just don’t think it will make a lot of sense since Hamilton is based on a real-life story, and I don’t Lazarus pits exist in this world, unless …)

Alexander Hamilton - Jason Todd. So from what I can tell he likes literature and has a fairly good grasp at it. In the dc universe, he was a street kid, so it’s like after Hamilton’s parents died, they both did what they do to survive. Like both their fathers left (Technically he died, but you can make whatever you want ) and both their mums died ( Jason’s mum has a drug overdose I think, and Hamilton’s mum died from a fever ) so you could change it to that the mum did drugs ( though I would doubt she would be able to afford it at the time Hamilton takes place, or if you are changing the time it could be different) and they both had to do whatever it took to survive, by stealing, bartering and all that good stuff…

Eliza Hamilton - Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Like Eliza and Marinette are just sweethearts who are both hopeless romantics (get the reference?) And they both are just nice, good people who probably trust and fall in love too easily. Like I could totally see Eliza as Marinette and they both setting up orphanages and Marinette making baked goods for them and then the little kids being grateful and just ahhhhh!!!

Angelica - Kagami (since I ship Alya with Nino too much) the look similar and both are fiercely loyal to ones they love and won't be afraid to hurt someone's feelings and both have a legacy to hold up (Like Angelica has to marry a rich guy because she is a firstborn Female, while Kagami has to hold up the family name in fencing by being the best) Whilst their personalities may be different as in Kagami is not very emotional often being cold, they still are similar a lot more ways than one could think

Peggy - This could be a DC character because besides Sabrina (who I kinda feel like it could be a bit weird to be Peggy and having a sister bond with Marinette and Kagami). It could be Chole but I feel like Chole would have more character than Peggy does

Phillip Schuyler (Eliza’s, Angelica's and Peggy’s dad) - It could be Mayor Boursiour (I hope I spelt it correctly) since he is a politician (a good one can be debatable) or Tom Dupain-Cheng, or even Tomoe (Kagami’s canon mother)

Phillip Hamilton (Eliza and Alexander’s son) - I think this has to be an OC character since like it would feel weird for a canon character to be their child, but I don't know. 

Aron Burr - It could be quite a few characters, like maybe Adrien, because both are adamant on standing on the sidelines instead of taking initiative. Other characters could be Roy Harper since from what I have heard, in the dc universe they are good mates (I'm not sure though), it could even be Bruce Wayne, maybe, I’m not sure though. I wouldn’t think joker would be him since like in “the world was wide enough” and the scene where Hamilton was about to die, he was saying “Bur, my first friend, my enemy” and I don’t think the joker would be friends with Jason though… or maybe Nino?? And he married Alya, who is Theodosia????? I don’t know I’m just throwing some ideas around people!!

Maria Reynolds - Lila Rossi. Come on people, it seems pretty perfect to me (not saying that Lila is a slut or anyone, just to be clear) both of them are using others to gain themselves and Lila has shown that she can get very touchy. I think in Hamilton, the lady lies about her situation (but I am not sure), and Lila just lies about everything, to be honest. So yeahhhh

Hamilton’s friends - Bat brothers, aka Dick Grayson, Tim Drake and Damian Wayne (or his last name before moving to Gotham). Like I’m not sure who Damian would be, but I feel like Laurence would be Dick though since they both have similar personalities (in my opinion)

Thomas Jefferson - ???. I’m not sure who can fit in this category tbh. Maybe It could be Black Mask (i don't know his character a lot I just found out he was an arch-enemy towards Jason)

John Adams - ???. I really don't know who it could be tbh but you could another Gotham villain

King George III - I think this one is Joker since they both seem insane (well joker is obviously insane whilst King George seems insane in the musical, or at least high on something)

Ok so I think that’s all the main characters sorted out, so what do you think??? I probably won’t write it (maybe if I learn peoples actual background and come up with a timeline), but anyone can use this idea as long as you credit me, or mention this was my idea, and please tag me if you do do it!!! I would love to see your works!!

If you change this idea a bit and Jason is adopted by Bruce in the modern era, then the two people can meet at a Wayne Gala??? There can be a lot of things that change in this depending on what year it is based and what it is most similar to.

I hope this idea can be inspirational and I hope to see someone do something with this idea (I don’t think anyone would see this) and I can’t wait to see what people might do to this idea!

[lildevyl]

Abandoned

Summary:  Got an idea from Hearts and Heroes a Markiplier fan-made game.  This is my take on what happens when Darkiplier is trying to take over Mark and the fight that fans did to try and bring him back.

TW:  Nightmares, manipulation, Cursing/Swearing, Darkness, Self Doubt, Dreams

A/N: This is a couple of scenes that I put together based the fan-made game Hearts and Heroes a Markiplier fan-game. This is for the JSE Charity Project Writing Contest.  It’s not that long, but I’m going to be fixing it, editing it and re-writing it for the Whumptober Prompt List. Enjoy!

Tagging:  @jsecharityproject

(Melody’s Nightmare)

“Brandy!”  Marie screamed as she came in from behind wrapping her arms around Brandy.

“NO!  Please!  I’m suppose to save you!!!”  Brandy cried effortlessly trying to grab Melody’s hand before the shadows consumed her.

“I’m sorry!!!”  The Darkness surrounded Melody and consumed her.

====================================

(The Markiplier Hub)

There was a flash of bright light and the next thing that Brandy and her team knew, was they were back at the Hub.

Mark was there but the one thing that nobody noticed was that the Hub was completely empty.  Mark hurried to the group as soon as he saw them.  “What happened!?”

“I COULDN’T SAVE HER!!!”  Brandy hysterically cried.  Tears were pouring down her face.

“The Darkness took her!”  Marie supplied unsure of what had just happened.

“If I had just gotten there sooner!!!  If I could have just convinced her that she was worth it!”  Brandy began to beat herself up over this.  She was successful in other missions.  Was able to help her team and yet this one, she failed.  She failed to save her, to save Melody.

Melody was having a nightmare about SCP Containment and being a victim.  Thought that she deserved to be in that nightmare, to be in that cell.  That all she did cause trouble and that people around would only get hurt because of her.  But that wasn’t true.  Brandy didn’t know why, but she had a gut feeling that all of what Melody was thinking and feeling, it was do to the Terrorlings.  They were feeding off of her fear and making her believe that she was the cause of the trouble.  Melody had a heart on her sleeve, she would have been one of the Heroes to help others, to fight off the Terrorlings!

“W-why c-couldn’t I save her?  I couldn’t h-help her?  Why c-can’t I help anybody?!”  Brandy began to sob and start to believe the self doubt that began to form.

If only you had gotten there sooner.

That poor girl would have been saved.

Would have been on you team.

Some team leader you turned out to be.

“Something happened!  We just appeared back here!”  Lilith said.

“She must have woken up.  It’s okay -”  Mark tried to calm everyone down.

“IT’S NOT OKAY!!!  I DIDN’T SAVE HER!!!  IT’S ALL MY FAULT!!!”  Brandy cried backing away from everyone.  A black appeared behind Brandy, but she too distracted, too distraught to see it.

“Brandy wait!!”  Jason called out.

“BRANDY!!!”  Marie screamed as she saw Brandy fell through the black hole in the floor.

==================================

(Brandy’s Nightmare)

Brandy fell through the hole in the floor of the Markiplier Hub and landed on top of a patch of golden flowers.  In a stone temple like palace.

“Huh?  What happened?  Where am I?”  Brandy looked around trying to figure out where she might be.  “This my nightmare?”  Brandy walked along the path and upon a stone doorway.  “Oh, no.  I think I know what game this was from.”

Brandy walked through the stone doorway and continue upon the path.  Where found a patch of green grass and very evil golden flower.

“You idiot!  You failed.  You couldn’t save her.”  Flowey taunted.

“I tried!  I tried so hard!”

“It wasn’t enough!  You let them down.  Weren’t you supposed to be the leader?”

“Stop it!”  Brandy cried.

“Mark trusted you, but you failed him.  You failed your team!  You failed that poor girl.  And now, by being here, you failed yourself!”  Flowey grinned and ready to attack.

Brandy did her best to fight off Flowey, but the more she fought the more, the doubts and fear she kept trying to suppress, kept coming to surface.  Pretty soon, her attacks were becoming weaker and weaker.  Flowey saw this and began to taunt her even more.  Soon, she would succumb to the darkness as well.

“What kind of leader needs to be saved?  It’s all your fault!  You couldn’t save anyone, not like this!  You might act tough, but deep down you know better!”

“Please!”  Brandy begged.

“You’re nothing.”  Flowey’s haunting laughing echoed all around.

“You’re wrong!”  Marie’s voice broke through silencing the haunting laugh.  “She saved me!  She saved all of us!”

Brandy turned around and saw all of her friends and teammates teleported into her nightmare.  They came to save her.  They came to get her.

“None of this was her fault!”  Jason encouraged.

“Sometimes, you tried your hardest and things still didn’t turn out the way you wanted it too.”  Lilith asserted.

“We wouldn’t leave you behind to fight alone, Brandy!”  Reed promised

“But  .   .   .”

“You think you could save her?  I like to see you try!”  Flowey taunted even more and to add insult to injury, Flowey called upon more Terrorlings to the fight.

Brandy and her team ready themselves and held their own.  Flowey was defeated!  But to their horror, Flowey was still planted and was standing tall with a huge smile on his face.

“Did you think that would be all?  Did you really think that you could win with the power of friendship?”

=================================

Hey it works in FanFictions!  It works in Anime!  Movies, TV Shows, books, magna  .   .   .

Ahem!  Narrator?

Yes?

If you’re finish?  I think we need to get back to the story here!

Oh!  Hehehe!  Sorry!  Okay, where were we?

=======================================

“Did you think that would be all?  Did you really think that you could win with the power of friendship?  You’re all so weak!  So stupid!!  Now let’s see how you handle this!!!”  Flowey summoned more Terrorlings to the battle.  Half the field was covered with Terrorlings!!

“What the hell?!  There’s too many!”  Reed observed.

“There’s no way we could this alone!”  Lilith agreed.

“We need help!  We need Mark!”  Marie nearly shouted.

You called for help.

More Terrorlings appeared.

But nobody came.

“My powers aren’t working!  I - I can’t do this!”  Brandy cried doubting her own ability.

“Yes, you can!  We’re here!  You didn’t fail anybody!”  Jason tried to encouraged.

“But I did!  I couldn’t help her!  I couldn’t help you!”  Brandy confessed.

“Where the hell is Mark!?  We need help!!!”  Reed shouted.

You called for help.

But nobody came.

“I don’t   .   .   .  I don’t know what to do!”  Brandy cried out in fear.  There was too many Terrorlings.  Too many doubts and fear going through her head.  She didn’t know what to do in this situation.

“Brandy watch out!”  Marie shoved Brandy outta the way and one of the Terrorlings knocked her unconscious.  Marie vanished from Brandy’s nightmare, waking up in the real world.

You called for help.

But nobody came.

“Oh my god!  Oh my god!  Oh my god!”  Jason was freaking out now.

Mark was finally able to teleport into Brandy’s dream.  Using the dream power he learned over the years, he managed to take out at least half the Terrorlings.  A portal to the Markiplier Hub opened behind the group.

“Go!  Get through the portal!  I’ll fight off the rest!”

==========================

(Markiplier Hub)

Everyone made it back to the Hub, and everyone’s anxiety, nerves, and stress level was at an all time high.

“Where’s Mark?”  Lilith asked concerned.

“Wasn’t he right behind me?”  Brandy asked.

Mark appeared a few minutes later, looking worse for wear.  “Is everyone alright?  Wait, where’s Marie?”

“She’s gone!  I couldn’t protect her!”  Jason stated.  Realization crashing down on him.

“This was all your fault Mark!”  Reed yelled in Mark’s face.  “What took you so fucking long?  The hero always arrives at the last minute!  Wasn’t that right?  But you were too damn late!”

“Reed!  Please stop it?”  Lilith pleaded.  “It’s not his fault.  You couldn’t expect him to be everywhere at once.”

“But we needed him!”  Reed accused.  “Mark, we needed you!  You let us down!  You always do this!”

“But he didn’t!”  Jason tried to come to Mark’s defense but Reed cut him off.

“It wasn’t like you were any help!  You fucking freak!”

“Reed you need to calm down!”  Brandy interjected.

“NO! Don’t you tell me to calm down!  Mark needs to take responsibility”

“For what?!  For you blowing things outta proportion?!”

“Blowing things outta proportion?!  Marie was gone!  Everyone’s gone!!!  Look at this place!!!  Take a good look around!!!  What the fuck has the place become?”

Jason backed away.  “I’m sorry!  I’m sorry!  I just can’t - please stop yelling!”  Jason disappeared, waking up in the real world.

“Jason?”

“Please?  I can explain,” Mark tried to reason.

“Explain what?  This was all your fault!  No wonder people have stopped coming!  You let this negative shit get in here!!!”

“Reed!  That’s enough!  Don’t talk to him like that!”  Brandy interjected trying her best to keep her temper and failing miserably.

“Look you guys,” Mark tried.  “I can’t control how people  .  .  .”  Reed cut him off.

“Isn’t this place your responsibility?!  If you actually cared then this wouldn’t have happened!!  You’re just like everyone else!  You might start with good intentions, but sooner or later you just stop caring.  Just like everyone else does.  You’re goddamn fake!!!!”

“Reed!  Shut!  The!  Fuck!  Up!”  Brandy yelled not able to hold her temper anymore.

“Fuck you!  I hate   .   .   .   I hate   .   .   .”  Reed disappeared, waking up in the real world.

“Why is this happening?”  Lilith cried before she too disappeared and woke up in the real world.

Brandy turned around after everyone left and saw Mark facing the wall.  She cautiously approached him.  Not sure on what she would say, or how to comfort him, but all knew was that she had to try.

“Mark?  Are you okay?  Reed  .   .   .   He didn’t mean it.  He was just  .  .  .  He’s under a lot of   .   .   .”  Brandy falter not being able to come up with the right words.

“It’s okay,” Mark said taking his glasses off.  “I’m - I’m used to it.”

“Mark?”  Brandy reached her hand out to him.  She very concerned now. Something just didn’t feel right.

Mark turned his head toward her.  Brand saw the crushed look on his face and the black tears streaming down his face.

=================================

(Mark’s House)

You let everyone down, Mark. There’s so much hate. And it’s all your fault! You could’ve saved everyone. You could’ve helped everyone. But you failed. You weren’t there when they needed you.

You’re pathetic!

It’s all falling apart around you. They don’t trust you anymore. How could they? You’re let them down over and over again. You’ll never be the hero they truly need. You never were a hero.

Just give up.

*Did you miss me?*

“Gah! AAHHHH!!!!”    Mark shot straight up from him bed.  He was still slightly crying from the dream - the nightmare he had.  He got up from bed and went to the bathroom to splash some water on his face.  Then he got ready for the day.  All the while he couldn’t get rid of the feeling of dread and the dark voice in his head.

They abandoned you.

The memory of last flash right in front of Mark’s mind’s eye.  Everyone in the Hub, all different people, some fans, some not, some were very brave, others were so timid.  All of them leaving.  One by one.  Marie, Jason, Lilith.  Brandy tried to console him, but Mark knew deep down that Reed   .   .   .  that Reed.

You’ve been pushed aside.

Bob and Wade didn’t need to come to the Hub anymore.  They had their own Hub’s that they’re in charge of.  They sometimes come to his Hub to check on Mark, to see how he’s doing.  And go on missions with him if it really was a tough one.  Jack, has his own Hub in Brighton.  Kicking so many Terrorlings asses.  How was he able to come and visit his Hub every now and then and still do his own?  Sleep is for the weak!  Jack always said.  And even Felix.  He lives in Brighton right there with Jack.  And he has been doing this long before Mark ever came around.  As a matter of fact, Felix was the one that helped Mark out when he first started all this.

You’ve been replaced.

Several of his videos weren’t doing so good.  Everytime he did a collab with Bob, Wade, Ethan or Jack, views went through the roof!  And many people   .   .   .   Have they really moved on to bigger and better things?  Was it time for Mark to quit YouTube?  Have they found someone  .   .   .  new?

Mocked.

Memories of several videos being shown and even videos that Mark himself thought were funny and were parodies.  Now, he was starting to wonder.  Were they really paradies?  Hello everybody my name is Markiplier.  Several people pretending to be him.  NO!  It was cosplay!  His fans loved to do cosplay!  The mini series!!!  The other sketches that he did!  That’s all it was!  It was all fun and games!  Wasn’t it?

Do you really think that they would ever truly trust you?  All you have to do is let me in.  Let me take control.  You won’t have to hurt anymore.

Mark finished up his recording for the day.  He was so emotionally, mentally and physically tired.  He wasn’t sure if he could fight off the Terrorlings anymore.  But then again, would anyone really come back after what he did?  After what he kept hiding?  He couldn’t hide from it any longer.  It was time to face his nightmare and his own Terrorling.

Darkiplier.

=========================

Tagging:  @huffletrax, @egopocalypse, @weirdmixofweirdness, @fear-is-nameless, @juju-on-that-yeet

[sassycassie-s-series]

All My Fault 33

By: SassyShoulderAngel319

Fandom/Character(s): DC, BatFam - Damian Wayne/Batman

Rating: PG-11/T- (for violence)

Notes: (Masterlist) This one jumps around a bit. Hopefully it’s not too difficult to follow.

Tag List (Open): @batboys-and-other-messes @welovegroot @probsjosh  @spooder-moon @lostredrobin @haylo4ever @na-n-na @rachelmorganroth  @reclusive-chicken-nugget​ 

Ch 1, Ch 2, Ch 3, Ch 4, Ch 5, Ch 6, Ch 7, Ch 8, Ch 9, Ch 10, Ch 11, Ch 12, Ch 13, Ch 14, Ch 15, Ch 16, Ch 17, Ch 18, Ch 19, Ch 20, Ch 21, Ch 22, Ch 23, Ch 24, Ch 25, Ch 26, Ch 27, Ch 28, Ch 29, Ch 30, Ch 31, Ch 32

^^^^^

“So, what do we do, Damian?” I asked quietly as Damian and I sat in my room on the floor across from each other. Jon had left to go home to Metropolis so we were alone to have our private discussion.

Damian reached across the distance between us and took one of my hands in both of his. “I want to be with you more than I’ve ever wanted to be with anyone else. However I don’t believe we should go public with any sort of romantic relationship immediately. As far as the rest of the world is concerned, you’ve been back nearly two weeks less than you have actually been in this future, which would make it seem as though you haven’t been back long enough to be in a romantic relationship—perhaps.”

“What about Bruce?”

Damian’s eyes dropped to our hands. “He returns from Metropolis tomorrow,” Damian said. “As I said earlier, he could look between the two of us and make an accurate estimate of what we’ve done while he was gone if he believed we had something to hide. I can tell him that we’ve fallen in love and intend to pursue a relationship—”

“No,” I interrupted. “Let… let me tell him.”

“Nora?” Damian asked, using my name instead of why?

I sighed. “If I tell him he might… freak out less. You know what I mean? Like, if I say I don’t want to go back to the past and explain why… I doubt he’d drop his coffee.”

I set my other hand on top of Damian’s hand holding my other one. I looked up and met his eyes.

“I love you, Damian Wayne. Strange as our situation is, it’s true.”

He gave me the widest and most genuine smile I’d ever seen from him—or either blood Wayne for that matter. “I love you as well, Nora McCloud.” He leaned forward. I closed the distance and pressed our lips together.

It was a far less heated kiss than the night before. Instead it was simple and tender, full of softer emotions than passion.

Damian pulled away first. “I believe you’re correct. You informing Father would be far safer.” He squeezed my hand. “And in a few weeks—perhaps even a month—we will announce that Nora McCloud and Damian Wayne are officially together.”

I snorted. “Press can finally have their field day about us,” I said.

Damian bounced an eyebrow. “S’pose so,” he agreed.

I smirked. “Let them,” I said.

Damian tutted. “Tt. Alright then.”

“But in private, are we officially together now?”

“Only if you agree to be.”

“I do. Heartily.”

We both snickered.

^^^^^

WHAM! My foot connected to the mugger’s chest—and I was fairly certain I heard a rib separate from his sternum. Yowch.

“Batman’s smitten,” Jason said in the open channel. Tonight it was all of us out on patrol except Tim, who volunteered to be on monitor duty. Dick and Jason had told Cass and Tim that Damian and I were in love and semi-officially a couple while we were in private.

I glanced around to see Damian standing on top of a building that made up one of the walls of the alley I was in, looking down at me. Even from my distance below I could see him grinning. I smiled back at him, whacked the mugger again and effectively knocked him out, and nodded to the man he’d been trying to steal from. “Are you alright, sir?” I asked.

He nodded.

“GCPD is on its way,” Damian supplied to me.

“The cops will be here soon,” I said to the man. “They’ll take your statement.” As I spoke I tied up the mugger. “He’ll be out for at least an hour.”

“Are you leaving?” the man asked me, looking a bit spooked by the mugger.

I gave him a smile. “Not if you don’t want me to,” I said, rocking back and forth on my heels. I realized how that could sound if taken the wrong way and quickly amended, “Not if you feel unsafe alone here with this man.” I didn’t need this guy hitting on me or trying any funny business when Damian was literally only a few stories above me. That being said, most of the creeps and misogynists in this city knew that trying anything rude with a girl in a mask and body armor—Batgirl, the Spoiler, Orphan, Batwoman, Cloudburst, and any visiting female heroes—was a recipe for getting several bones broken and sometimes a verbal smack-down.

Didn’t always discourage them from trying, but I’d dislocated eight shoulders and paralyzed three sets vocal chords in the first two years of being Cloudburst and had since lost track of injuries I’d dealt to creeps who grabbed my backside or hands or other places or made disgusting comments.

As it was, this guy didn’t say anything rude or try to touch me.

I touched my comm-link. “By the way, Hood?” I said.

“Yes Cloudy?” Jason asked.

“Shut up,” I said.

I heard lots of snickering from the rest of the Bat-family.

After a few minutes of waiting, the cops came. Once they turned up, the mugging victim thanked me. I nodded and shot a grappling hook to the roof, whizzing out of sight. Once I swung onto the same rooftop as Damian, I felt his arm ensnare my waist and pull me closer to him. He tapped his comms to mute his microphone and smirked at me. “That was attractive,” he whispered.

I snickered and muted my mic too.

He leaned closer.

I put my hand between our lips before he could kiss me. “Batman and Cloudburst can’t be together, Damian,” I said quietly.

He closed his eyes and sighed with complaint. “Why not?”

“Because as far as civilians are concerned, Cloudburst is still between five and ten years older than Batman. That would be weird. And the coincidence of Nora McCloud returning only a week-and-a-half after Cloudburst can be ignored and forgotten. But Cloudburst and Batman getting caught kissing on a rooftop a month before Damian Wayne and Nora McCloud announce that they’re together is downright suspicious,” I said. “Especially coupled with Cloudburst and Nora’s reappearances.”

Damian pursed his lips and stared at me, his green eyes glinting through the eye holes of his cowl. “Alright,” he relented. “Batman and Cloudburst have a professional relationship.”

“You can kiss me in uniform when we get back to the Batcave,” I said quietly.

^^^^^

“Their mics are muted,” Jason remarked to Dick, Tim, and Cass on a private channel. “I can see them talking through my scope but I can’t hear them.”

“What do you mean, ‘scope’?” Dick asked. “Hood, you don’t have a sniper rifle, do you?”

Jason hesitated. “… No?”

“Hood!” Dick protested.

“Hey, wingding! Now is not the time! They’re being lovey-dovey and you’re complaining about me?!” Jason snapped.

“Okay. So their mics are muted so we can’t hear them. What do you mean, lovey-dovey?” Tim asked, interrupting the argument.

“Well Damian’s got his arm around her waist and she just stopped him from kissing her. She’s got this goofy type of lovestruck grin on her face and Damian is grinning. Grinning,” Jason told the others.

Tim and Dick both “Wow”ed Jason’s description.

“Who wants to bet twenty bucks on how long they date before Damian proposes?” Jason asked.

“Me!” Dick and Tim said at the same time.

“I will too,” Cass added.

“I bet six months and under,” Dick said.

“Whoa. Cutting that one fine, eh?” Tim wondered.

“Well it’s not entirely unheard of—especially if both parties know each other well before becoming a couple,” Dick said, a shrug in his voice.

“Which they don’t,” Jason deadpanned.

“Shut up,” Dick retorted. “Sure they do. Cloudy probably knows Damian better than anyone except B, Alfred, and maybe me. Heaven knows she put forth the effort to do so.”

“Mm,” Jason grunted, unconvinced.

“I will bet six months to a year,” Cass said.

“Hmm. A year to two years,” Tim put in.

“Then I guess I bet two years or any amount longer,” Jason said.

Dick scoffed. “Oh please. I know them. Marriage is an important concept to Cloudy and Damian was raised with the League of Assassins where I'm relatively positive arranged marriages for political reasons aren’t uncommon. I doubt they’ll date that long before getting married.”

“Well twenty bucks says we’ll see, then, hmm?” Jason challenged.

“Guess so,” Dick agreed.

“Yup,” Tim said.

“Yes,” Cass added.

^^^^^

“By the way, we should probably sleep in separate rooms when we get back tonight,” I said. “Because Bruce will be back in the morning and I don’t want to have to edit more security camera footage.” I’d already told Damian that Jason and Dick had taken care of the night before’s recordings. “Plus I don’t know when he’ll be back and I don’t want him to come check on you and find us, y’know, in bed together.”

Damian thought for a moment, still holding me close. “You are… correct. We should probably stay in our own rooms anyway, for as much as we can help it. As though we’re a couple who does not live together yet,” he said.

I nodded. “I agree,” I said.

Damian let me go with a little smirk and jerked his head toward the highest buildings in Gotham. “Let’s go finish this patrol,” he said.

I smiled. “Sounds good,” I agreed. He squeezed my hand before letting go. We took off running over the rooftop and leapt off the side at the same time, unmuting our comms as we went. My hair streamed behind me in the wind as we swung off toward the deeper parts of Gotham. I whooped. I’d never get tired of this.

^^^^^

Damian and I climbed out the Batmobile, beating everyone else back to the Batcave. Except Tim. Who was no longer sitting at the bat-computer and probably up in the shower. Damian and I met at the front hood of the car. Damian rested his hands on my waist, tugging me gently closer. My hands found his shoulders. “May I give you a kiss goodnight, my darling?” Damian asked.

I smiled. “You absolutely may,” I replied.

Damian bent down and pressed his lips to mine. I felt a small grin in his lips. “Everything will be alright,” he breathed when our lips parted but our foreheads rested together. “No matter how Father reacts. Everything will be alright.”

“I know,” I said. “I trust this. I trust you.” My hands slid up from his shoulders and around the back of his neck, my fingers sliding over the short hair on the back of his head.

“I would wait forever to be with you.”

“I would too. But let’s hope that doesn’t happen.” I tilted my head forward and kissed his cheek.

—

Next

[maddiviner]

Welcome to another installment in my giant annotated bibliography series!!

You can find the rest of it here.

This particular section focuses on spellbooks and other books that primarily contain rituals and ceremonies.

I’m only including books that I’ve successfully worked spells from in this list. Also, while I try to provide beginner-accessible recommendations, be aware that some of these books verge into intermediate or even advanced territory. Your mileage, as always, may vary.

Magick, like most things, is what you put into it.

The Goodly Spellbook, by Dixie Deerman and Steve Rasmussen. The title sounds horribly fluffy, but this is a hidden gem. It explains obscure concepts like alternative alphabets and potential uses of musical notes, as well as plant lore and other bits and pieces. Definitely worth checking out. It’s way more than just “a book of spells.”

Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells, by Judika Illes. The title sounds trite to some, but it delivers. This book has spells from almost every culture and spiritual philosophy, as well as a very detailed formulary. I read it when I’m bored sometimes, too, just because I always learn some tidbit from it.

Book of Spells, by Nicola Pulford. In most editions, this book is absolutely gorgeous and describes spellcasting traditions from a variety of perspectives and traditions. Recommended for those who already understand the basics, as this book jumps straight into spellcasting and gives only a small amount of information about how things work.

1001 Spells, by Cassandra Eason. This book is notable in that it skips with preliminaries and dives right into the spells. For that reason, it’s best suited to those who already have experience with magick. Many of the spells are short, require few ingredients, and are highly practical.

Pastel Spells, by Rose Orriculum. This book takes a very postmodern, utilitarian approach to magick while still having a great deal of flair, inspiration, and beauty. I would almost call it chaos magick, but with more poetic aspects. Unsure if that’s what @orriculum was going for, but I like it, and I recommend it.

The Big Book of Practical Spells, by Judika Illes. This book contains many of the same good features seen in Ms. Illes’s other works, but is significantly more easily digested for beginners. Ms. Illes doesn’t water things down, but she does explain them very well - this would be a great first book for a newbie!

The Modern Witchcraft Spellbook, by Skye Alexander. This book features a large section of basic information at the beginning. The spells, included later in the book, are not overly-fancy nor do they require a bunch of unobtainable props. Of note is the Animal Token spell, which I found very creative and helpful.

The Modern Witchcraft Book of Love Spells, by Skye Alexander. Love spells are a controversial topic, but most witches would agree that certain kinds are almost always helpful. This book mostly avoids messy issues of mind control and emphasizes consent. It provides ample solutions for a lovestruck witch, and is worth picking up if emotional magick interests you at all.

Magic When You Need It, by Judika Illes. This book contains 150 spells total. Quite a few of them enter truly gray areas regarding manipulation, but I can imagine situations where most would be useful. For example, the author includes spells for banishing bad neighbors and a very effective “Gag the Gossips” spell. For intermediate spellcasters.

Protection and Reversal Magick, by Jason Miller. This gets a little unnerving at times, but it gives good advice on protective spellcraft. Take with a grain of salt, though - some of this has the potential to make you feel paranoid.

Give these a look, and maybe you’ll find them helpful! 

I’ll be posting more installments in this series of book recommendations, organized by topic. You can find all the ones so far here, under my #annobib tag.

Also, if you buy the books via the links above, I get some pocket money which I will not spend on Red Bull energy drinks and Zebra Mildliners. Really.

[sorcerusdragonbionics]

8/11-8/17 Reading List

Heyo! I should be posting again soon it will be the one from last week.

(If someone wants me to start making master posts so they’re organized by Ship or Fandom or whateve lemme know, honestly the longest part is going from a list of links to my Google format so creating a Master List wouldn’t be too bad)

Google: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BoQVZrNyejwkWCMSVfT7NNTLMsAWUSt_4FmEmPldOy8/edit?usp=sharing

Altered

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): Rehabilitated_Sith

https://archiveofourown.org/works/19293934/chapters/45888058 

Summary: chapter 7: Tim finds himself in over his head when he is faced with a de-aged Damian. // All the stories I want to write but don’t have time to fully flesh out. // Short stories/one-shots/Drabbles

7/?

Last Updated: 2019/8/20

Rating: G

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 19048

Anyone Can Look Glamorous… Just Stand There and Look Stupid

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types, DCU, DCU(Comics), Batman (Comics)

Author(s): meaninglessblah, tomato_carnage

https://archiveofourown.org/works/19831576/chapters/46958824 

Summary: Tim goes undercover in a 1950s pin-up girl style dress to lure in a mark, and all the Robins come to the stark realisation that Tim is way more capable and also more attractive than they gave him credit for. It might have something to do with the victory curls...

7/7

Has been Completed since I last read it

Now Part of Series

Rating: M

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Tim gets in some serious trouble that the others are oblivious to, but the Author lets you know

Words: 11437

You and Me (Were Meant to Be)

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): Scarletbat

https://archiveofourown.org/works/8657965/chapters/19850707 

Summary: Tim finds Damian in an unlikely situation but his 'help sparks a chain of event for both parties involved // I just wanna thank SimplyTati because without her this would have sucked. Again thank you

10/?

2019/6/7

Rating: E

Warnings: Underage, No Archive Warnings Apply

ABO

Words: 12324

So Called Date

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types, Batman (Comics)

Author(s): cadkitten

https://archiveofourown.org/works/18302285 

Summary: Damian stood in front of the mirror in his bedroom, hands stuffed in the pockets of his dark gray slacks, balled into tight fists. His jaw was clenched against the tidal wave of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. It wasn't fair. None of this was.

1/1

Rating: E

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Underage (I think… I’m pretty sure Dami is under 18), Undercover makes everything really fucking confusing for everyone

Words: 3464

Batfam’s Valentine’s Series

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types, Superman- All Media Types

Author(s):  LightningHope

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1279517 

Your Favorite Truth Summary: Time travel is not part of Damian's regular schedule. It's alright, Richard's there, even if his Robin suit is an atrocity.

1/1

Rating: G

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

You’re Good

Words: 1149

Sunbeams Summary:  Kon hasn't played the guitar in ages. It's fine. He's definitely sure he remembers some songs. // (Tim, somehow, does not believe him.)

1/1

Rating: G

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

You’re good

Words: 903

Turn Away, Cruel Fate Summary: Soulmates are a tricky business, and not worth it as far as Tim as concerned. Fairy tales don't exist, and what's the point of someone's name written into your skin if you have to work at it like any other relationship? No thanks. // Shockingly, Damian disagrees.

1/1

Rating: T

Warnings: Creator Chose Not to use Archive Warnings

Underage cuz it’s TimDami

Words: 2698

How To Accudentally Fix Your Family

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types

Author(s):  General_Midnight_of_Ardar

https://archiveofourown.org/works/16770394/chapters/39350512

Summary: Jason Todd didn't mean to go back in time to only a few months after his death. And honestly dealing with his family normally is difficult but this is another level. So he decided to avoid them. Whilst being the most annoying little piece of annoyance that he can be. But it all gets complicated when these pesky things called feelings get in the way.... // Please read and try

1/?

2018/11/28

Rating: Not Rated

Like…  T

Warnings: Major Character Death

Words: 701

Nothing Less Than Drake

Fandom(s): Batman (Comics), Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): cadkitten

https://archiveofourown.org/works/10723695/chapters/23761395 

Summary: His name isn't Tim Drake for nothing. One curse to his entire family line was all it took to put Tim in a very awkward situation once he found out he wasn't like everyone else.

4/4

Rating: E

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

READ THE TAGS, it’s that it’s … bad… it’s just extra(?)

Words: 15420

Detente Series

Fandom(s): DCU (Comics), Batman (Comics), Teen Titans (Comics), Super Sons (Comic), Red Robin (Comics), Robin (Comics), Batman and Robin (Comics)

Author(s):  MsSolo

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1091745 

Armistice Summary: Damian tries to tell himself that at least this has bought him some time before he has to face his father. That somehow it's better than Dick's cloying sympathy. That Pennyworth deserves time to work on his hobbies without being dragged hither and thither over nothing. But none of it's true, it's Drake, and he's here to witness Damian's humiliation.

1/1

Rating: G

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 3235

Cease Fire Summary: "Are you ever coming out of the sofa again?" Cissie asks. // Tim considers. "Has everyone in the coffee shop stopped staring?” // "Most of them." // Most isn't good enough. "I think I'll stay here a bit longer." // Cissie drapes her jacket over his head, because she is a true friend. It's safe in the dark.

1/1

Rating: Not Rated

Like T (barely)

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 4906

Negotiation Summary: "Is this about a boy?" Tim asks. "I mean, I meant it when I said you don't have to tell me, but I think everyone would worry less if you let us know the vague ballpark. You know: romance, health, ninjas, time travel." He uses the rear view mirror to check his appearance, pulling some strands out of his bun to make it look more casual and checking his teeth. // "You're fishing," Damian says. "And your hair looks stupid. Just innately. Don't waste time on it." // He gets out of the car. Tim isn't as nosey as Dick; or rather, he prefers to get his information on subtler ways. Damian can't think of the last time Tim asked him a personal question outright. // He narrows his eyes. "You're not fishing," he says. "You're deflecting."

1/1

Rating: Not Rated

It is definitely T

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 5422

Peace Process Summary: "You need to empty the can first." // "I don't have any more bags. When was the last time you went back on a decision? You 'improved' upon it?" // "I am not saying I ever have. I have never made a less than perfect decision. I merely propose it as an option for you to reduce the paralysis you clearly face in this area." Damian taps the trash can. "Would I be wrong in suggesting you have not purchased any more bags because you have not found the perfect bags to purchase?" // "No. I have, they're just from the grocery store by the manor and I haven't had a chance to swing by recently." Tim throws his hands up as Damian takes the trash can away from him. "Though, admittedly, I could probably live with an imperfect trash bag, under the circumstances."

9/9

Rating: T

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 15242

Partition Summary: Damian frowns. “It’s vegetarian.” // “I’m not Jason.” Tim smiles at Damian. “I checked out the menu online, Damian. It looks really exciting. And I could probably use the vitamins.” // Damian huffs at him. They’re back on familiar territory. “The five food groups are not Chinese, Indian, Mexican, Italian and cheese, Drake.” // “You’re forgetting “just add water”.” // “I’m doing you the favour of pretending that cuisine doesn’t exist.”

1/1

Rating: T

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 7239

Unification Summary: “I am Damian al Ghul Wayne, Ibn al Xu'ffasch. My birthright demands I accept only that which I deserve. A cowed man, beaten and broken, coerced into marriage and trapped by gratitude? That is the husband you think is my right?” Damian draws himself up to his full height, finally tall enough to look his grandfather in the eye. “Do you think so little of me, Grandfather?”

48/48

Rating: E

Warnings: Creator Chose Not to Use Archive Warnings, No Archive Warnings Apply

This causes the debate for Age of Consent where you were raised vs where you live

Words: 142133

Trade Agreements Summary: Random bits and pieces relating to Detente // 1 - Unification Chapter 7, PoV switch // 2 - What if: they had just told Bruce

3/?

Last Updated : 2019/8/28

Yes I read chapter three since there were only two when I read it

Rating: E

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Same thing with Unification

Words: 16638

All I Want for Christmas is a Robin

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): LebreTim

https://archiveofourown.org/works/13076973/chapters/29915307 

Summary: "Emerald green eyes, naturally tanned skin and a very familiar scowling face, what could only mean two things: Thalia had decided to play get impregnated by Batman and hide his child away again or Damian was de-aged."

6/6

Rating: G

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 10646

Not Mine

Fandom(s): Batman (Comics), Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): Capucine

https://archiveofourown.org/works/6091012/chapters/13961113 

Summary: Damian and Tim are forced into a horrific situation--and this is the immediate aftermath.

12/?

Last Updated: 2017/6/3

Rating: T

Warnings: Rape/Non-Con, Underage

ABO

Words: 19723

The World We Have Build

Fandom(s): Batman (Comics), DCU (Comics), Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): Skrigget

https://archiveofourown.org/works/10946388 

Summary: Damian curses loudly as he stares down at the pregnancy test he's holding in a tight grip. What is he supposed to do with this, he wonders, as he sighs heavily and notices that his hands are shaking slightly. He inhales sharply and forces his breathing to remain calm. // ** // Basically: Damian is pregnant (he hadn't planned this, far from), he's seventeen (this much happened by itself), an omega (which he hates because Mother and Father are both alphas) and the baby is Tim Drake's (well, the unborn baby is Damian's but still) and all of this could prove problematic. Very, very problematic actually.

1/1

Rating: E

Warnings: Underage

ABO, read the notes/tags

Words: 20655

Bars and Embarrassing Brothers

Fandom(s): Batman (Comics)

Author(s): Avanalae

https://archiveofourown.org/works/10822569 

Summary: This is all Babs' fault. Now he's being pursued by his own brothers.

1/1

Rating: T

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Words: 830

Fear

Fandom(s): Batman- All Media Types

Author(s): Sakurras

https://archiveofourown.org/works/10134344

Summary: When Scarecrow captures Damian and Tim, the unbelievable happens and tragedy strikes the Batfamily.

1/1

Rating: T

Warnings: Major Character Death

Words: 1389

Zero: Birth of the World’s Best Hero Duo

Fandom(s): BNHA

Author(s):  Toboe1087

https://archiveofourown.org/works/18548689/chapters/43963657 

Summary: There was a next to zero percent chance that it would happen. That two infants would meet each other in the park and have a soulmate connection. That they would grow up together and change the world forever. But that's the thing, the chances were next to zero, but not quite zero.

40/?

Last Updated: 2019/8/29

Rating: T

Warnings: Graphic Depictions of Violence

Words: 150571

Words Don’t Count for Partial Reads

To Have and To Hold

Fandom(s): BNHA

Author(s): Raezbearycream

https://archiveofourown.org/works/20289709

Summary: Pitted against two princes of hell, young witch Todoroki Shouto is doomed to meet his end. Little does he know, his destruction is only part of a much grander scheme. His destiny is much different than he was taught to believe. He's fucked.

1/?

Last Updated: 2019/8/18

Rating: E

Warnings: Creator Chose Not to Use Archive Warnings

 ABO, Forced Bonding, Force Pregnancy, Feminization, READ THE TAGS!

Words: 5389

[podcastcoach]

Simply Sonic SS1 and Second Line Dix WordPress Theme Reviews

Simply Sound Company SS1 PreAmp Review

While I've never used any preamps like the Triton Audio Fethead Microphone Preamp or the Cloudlifter CL-1, I was really impressed with the amazing amount of boost to the sound.

The large dose of extra gain can make help a budget microphone/preamp combination sound clean and more professional. Some microphones such as the Heil Pr-40 and the Sure SM7B are known for really low outputs. This creates a situation where you have to turn the gain up on your mixer or recording device. This can leave the door open for added hiss depending on your mixer or recording device.

The Simply Sound SS1 is designed for dynamic microphones only.

More Clean Gain

Triton Audio Fethead provides 27 db of clean gain with a price for $89

Cloudlifter CL-1 provides 25 db of clean gain for $149

The Simply Sound SS1 - provide 27 db of gain for $99

The Simply Sound website shows the Fethead at a $149 price tag, but at BNH, I show a price of $89

My Opinion

As I had said, never using any preamp (besides the one in my mixer, and I've also used the DBX 286,  and the Aphex 230) even without a preamp, I never thought I sounded bad.

With that said, the concept makes sense. I know that when I turn the gain up on any mixer there comes a point where noise is introduced. Using the SS1, I basically turned my gain all the way down.

The construction is super rugged and resembles the Cloudlifeter all-metal casing (but cooler looking in black) you're not going to break this. You do need some phantom power (so a typical route might be to plug your microphone into the SS1. Then plug the ss1 into your mixer. The mixer would need to have the Phantom Power Turned on.

For my recording today I had my EV Re320 going into the SS1 and that went directly into the Zoom H5. It was an amazing amount of boost.

How I did the test. I set my levels using the H5 recorded some audio, removed the SS1 from the chain, and plugged it back into my Zoom H5 without touching any knobs.

Do you NEED this? As with all things podcasting, it depends. If you're happy with your audio, no. If you struggle to get enough signal into your recorder, or the sound has a fair amount of noise, then this is well worth the money.

Check it out at simplysound.co

Second Line Podcasting WordPress Theme

I no longer recommend Appendipity themes. This is a theme I loved and have on most of my websites. The face of the company Joey Kissimmee was last seen online in late 2016, and they are no longer replying to any support emails that I send. Unfortunately, this is not the first time I've done this. Semiologic was a cool theme until Thesis came out. Then they went from needing no knowledge of code to having to know a ton of code.

I really like Appendipity themes as there was a lot of flexibility (and no need for knowledge of code). I love the Divi theme, but they come close to having too much flexibility and people can get overwhelmed because it does everything (and the learning curve can be a bit large). Divi is a well-managed theme, with a huge community and awesome support. You can join Elegant Themes (the creators of Divi) for $89 a year. I did the one time fee of $249 for lifetime access. In addition to their themes, they have some cool plugins.

One thing I just discovered is when you purchase a Second Line Theme, you can only use it on one website. This puts it int the "Depends" situation. The good news there is a one time fee. On the Evanto market, it shows six months of support with extended support for $17.63 a year. If you have multiple sites (for me I have at least four) that can add up ($59 X 4 = $236).

Second Line Theme Support

So far Second Line support has been great answering all my questions. The theme I'm using (Dixie) is skewing my featured image. When I informed this of the problem, they told me exactly what to do if I wanted to edit some files. The means you're going to need to understand FTP, and not be afraid to edit some code (always make a backup of any files you are editing when it comes to theme code). I was surprised that the theme allowed a featured image to be skewed disproportional as I don't know ANY designer that would allow an image to be reshaped (and if you have any text on your image it makes it blurry).

The Power Of Elementor

While the Second Line theme makes it easy to set colors, headers, and the theme seems to make it possible to adjust everything (except a skewing featured image...) what I also found amazing was a free plugin that they recommend you use (and they have some built-in features for it ) called Elementor. This is an open source page builder (That looks a lot like, Divi). This will work with most themes, and its a super easy drag and drop page builder. The cool thing is you can use that plugin on any theme. 

Always Consider Your Source

I hear people that advise new podcasters and they try to sell people packages and strategies that work for them. The problem is they are not you. For example, as I have multiple websites, I might lean toward Divi over Second Line. If you had one website, then a like Dixie or Satchmo might be just the trick if you only have one website. It might be a better fit for you.

What Is Up With Libsyn Stats?

Libsyn rolled out new stats back on September 18th. Here are our blog posts that go over the stats changes: https://blog.libsyn.com/2017/09/18/stats-overhaul-iab-compliance-podcasts-stats-libsyn-company-announcement/ https://blog.libsyn.com/2017/09/18/libsyn-stats-overhaul-need-know/ NOTE:  Libsyn sent out an email to all Libsyn users on September 18th - if you did not see that email - you might want to check your spam folder.  It would have gone to the email registered to your Libsyn account.

Rob Walch  also talked about it more on our latest episode of the Libsyn Podcast: http://thefeed.libsyn.com/105-stats-follow-up-and-apple-podcasts-feed-tags The conversation starts right after the promo at the 52 Minute mark.

My Poker Game Analogy

Picture yourself at a poker game (a really, really big table)

Ben Robins, Audible.com

Lindsay Lawrence, WideOrbit

Ilwira Marciszek, AdLarge Media

Eurry Kim, New York Public Radio

Earl Swigert, WideOrbit

Yukifumi Touya, Digital Advertising Consortium Inc.

Hirofumi Kanda, Cyber Communications Inc.

Dan Misener, Pacific Content

Mohammad Al-Abdullah, RhythmOne

Jose Alvarez Muguerza, BlogTalkRadio

John Zoephel, Pandora

Kevin McCaul, Acast Stories USA

John Rosenius, Acast Stories USA

Ilham Elkatani, DoubleVerify

Steve Mulder, National Public Media

Stephen Haptonstahl, National Public Media

Candace Williams, BlogTalkRadio

David Marple, Triton Digital

Conrad Trautmann, Westwood One

Robert Peterson, Westwood One

Bob Charish, BlogTalkRadio

Jason Cox, Slate

Bosko Milekic, AdGear Technologies, Inc.

Francois Fortin, AdGear Technologies, Inc.

Andy Toh, BlogTalkRadio

Bruno Nieuwenhuys, Adswizz Inc

Rob Walch, Libsyn

Joel Withrow, Slate

Erik Barraud, Adswizz Inc

Erik Diehn, Midroll Media

Robert Freeland, Podtrac

Dan Jeselsohn, New York Public Radio

Angelo Mandato, RawVoice

Hugo Martel, Triton Digital

Tim Clarke, Cox Media Group

Greg Batusic, PodcastOne

Hernan Lopez, Wondery LLC

Allan Bressler, CBS Local

Norm Pattiz, PodcastOne

Kit Gray, PodcastOne

Jim Kott, WideOrbit

Rob Kass, Nielsen

Millie Mrvica, Westwood One

Jaime Singson, Sizmek

Kelli Hurley, Westwood One

Brian Lynch, Westwood One

Ryan Granner, ESPN.com

Joe Mead, ESPN.com

Skyler Tobey, ESPN.com

Jennifer Susalis, CBS Local

Silvia Mihailescu, Adswizz Inc

Stefan Olson, Minnesota Public Radio

Karim Rayes, RhythmOne

Todd Cochrane, RawVoice

Jean-Luc Wasmer, Triton Digital

Peter deVroede, Midroll Media

Todd Pringle, Midroll Media

Yi Huang, Condé Nast

Gregg Rogers, Sizmek

Alixandra Liner, New York Public Radio

Brett Robinson, National Public Media

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) empowers the media and marketing industries to thrive in the digital economy. Its membership is comprised of more than 650 leading media and technology companies that are responsible for selling, delivering, and optimizing digital advertising or marketing campaigns. They were up to deal the next hand and they stated that "downloads are wild" and everyone went "WHAT?" at the table and they didn't want downloads to be wild.

For the industry to be able to move forward, the table had to come together and decide on what would constitute a download. Their answer can be seen in this report. They are currently working on a second version.  If you were going to "Sit at the table" you had to agree to the terms and they all did.

Much like when the music industry went from Cassettes to CD's it was a pain. This meant we had to buy all of our favorite music again. But the audio was better. As a music listener, I had no choice but to buy a CD player. It's the way the industry went.

Could Libsyn communicate better? I guess so, there is always room for improvement. It gets tough as no podcast company is going to peel back the curtain 100% as if they tell you how they do their stats, you open the door for people to game the system. I personally don't know the formula (I just help you "drive the car" as a Libsyn support person, I don't build it). This is similar to the guy who throws the chicken in the Fryer at KFC. He knows hows to cook the chicken but has no idea what the 11 herbs and spices are.

The numbers are lower as the INDUSTRY (remember to poker table above) decided to move toward a number closer to the unique downloads

This is an Industry-Wide Situation

I did a test over the last few weeks, and I released an episode that had tracking from Libsyn, Podtrac, and Blubrry. In a recent episode of Podcast Ninja, Todd Cochrane explained how years ago Podtrac, Blubrry, and Libsyn came up with specs for an organization for the Association of Downloadable Media (it starts at the 11:44  mark ). So for years, Podtarac, Blubrry, and Libsyn were close in numbers. Fast forward to today and due to how apps are now consuming media it appears that the larger the file size, the greater your numbers were being inflated. So last week I sent out a file that I encoded at 320 kbps (DO NOT DO THIS) and here are my numbers after 24 hours.

Libsyn: 1193 Podtrac: 991 Blubrry 1748

If you click into the episode on Blubrry you will see the number of 1247 unique downloads which is closer to the IAB standard that Libsyn and Blubrry are using.

You Didn't Lose Your Audience

I know it is quite a blow to your ego to have the total number of downloads decline, in some cases, people are losing large amounts of their audience. The truth is the same people that listened to your last episode are listening to your current episode. The way it is reported is different. In a way, it's like if we all told time in minutes. There were 1440 minutes in a day, and then everyone decided to tell time in hours and agreed there are 60 minutes in an hour. So now there are 24 hours in a day. That sounds like a lot less than 1440, but I didn't lose any time. I just changed the way I report it.

Obviously, those who have CPM deals with advertisers are in a completely different situation. Remember that some of the people on the IAB technical board were from companies like Midroll, Adswizz and other advertising companies. It doesn't make it any better, but they should have an idea of why this is happening as they were they during the planning.

Yes it Sucks

As I said, any time your numbers go down, it hurts. Hang in there, they will go back up (if you look at the Edison research on podcast listenership on the graph there is one year where it shows the numbers went down - why? They changed the criteria). In the long run, the podcast industry will benefit from this move.

It Will Get Better

I was recently in the Libsyn headquarters in Pittsburgh PA, and I got a brief tour of the new stats. It looked very impressive as libsyn continues to bring you the best media hosting in the industry. Use the coupon code sopfree.

Start Podcasting in Six Weeks 

I'm bringing back the six-week group coaching class where we meet live on Saturdays and we walk through the whole process. You can start with zero, and by the end of February have a well researched, properly planned, properly executed podcast. To be first in line go to www.startpodcastinginsixweeks.com

Where Will I Be?

Big Podcasts - Nashville, TN

October 21st I will be attending the Big Podcast Event put on by David Hooper and Rik Roberts about growing your audience in Nashville Tennessee see bigpodcasts.com

DC Pofest - Washing DC

November 10-11, 2017 I will be in DC at DCPodfest speaking on "Is Your Podcast Making These Mistakes?"

Podfest Multimedia Expo - Orlando Fl

February 8-10 I will be presenting at the Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando Florida see podfest.us

Social Media Marketing World - San Diego, CA

The ultimate event on Social Media. I will be leading a panel on Podcast Monetization See Social Media Marketing World

Ready to Start Podcasting Now?

Step by step tutorials

Private Facebook Group

Priority Email Support

Live Group Coaching

$49/month or get two free months when you sign up for a year.

Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/start

Check out this episode!

[geek-gem]

Annabelle Creation

Well I’ve finally seen it and just got out of the shower. Also on Wikipedia because just in case I wanna spell some stuff right.

I saw it with my Nana and she wanted to see it.

Spoilers will be included in this post and I’ll tag it.

But I wanna reveal this first actually. It’s also one of the reasons why I saw the movie. Also this is well I don’t know if I wanna say review but also a reaction meh just a talk about the film.

Yet one of the reasons I saw this because on DeviantArt and I’m just saying I’m a Sonic The Hedgehog fan. Their was this fan casting by someone I watch of one of the actresses in the film. Her name is let me check Talitha Bateman checked three times. It was this fan casting as Maria Robotnik.

It seemed like a good casting choice yet instead of wanting to see some clips just also the good scores about the film it being better then the original. I wanted to see it…

I’m gonna say okay in my head no I don’t wanna say glad yet…it’s nice I saw it. But holy shit seeing that.

Honestly I liked it. Gonna tell you this I’m new to The Conjuring franchise. Including the idea that theirs actually a cinematic universe for it. The idea of it is honestly quite nice. By the looks of it, it’s doing pretty well. Despite the first Annabelle film doesn’t seem to be the best.

But I’ll talk about that a bit more later. To be honest I’m not the biggest horror fan these days. Yet it may sound stupid I don’t think I wanna call it a phase yet since I have a collection. I do like some horror I’m just not no offense the biggest nut. Including me trying to be intelligent. Mainly as a teenager was big into some slasher characters such as Jason, Freddy, Michael, and Leatherface. Along with some other horror related such as Evil Dead and some Stephen King movies. Yet it’s stuff like Alien and Predator that’s mostly a thriller. Also some video games such as Outlast, FNAF, Bendy And The Ink Machine, Tattletail, Resident Evil, Dead Space, and some Silent Hill mainly the games despite I’ve haven’t played them.

This film is honestly quite good. I’m just gonna mention related to the first part about that fan casting. Now just put Dead Space behind Resident Evil ha stop

But the acting is great. Including I’m gonna say with little moments and just throughout the film. Gonna be kind of silly. Yet the concept that in a way where most of the characters are kids. In my head I’m like NOT THE KIDS and was worried.

Let’s say I was invested including yeah some characters just really they are okay. Nothing much bad as the film goes on as shit gets real.

Also this little moment between Talitha Bateman’s character and Lulu Wilson’s character looked on Wikipedia for Lulu’s name. Theirs this moment I think in the middle of the film. Where I feel a bit emotional yet I was thinking of Shadow The Hedgehog just their acting and them as kids I can believe. Including this relationship they have.

Basically it was nice I was concerned about the characters.

I will say I’m new to the franchise it’s basically the first Conjuring related film I’ve seen. Let’s just say I may sound stupid. I’ve even told my Nana and mom. I was uncomfortable, and yeah scared. Because I’ve even talked to my Nana I’ve haven’t been the biggest fan of horror for some time. Mainly such as watching movies. Including over time no offense their not for me at times.

Even my Nana she liked it and she’s a nice lady. It seemed a bit much for her. She says she likes horror movies yet she was not expecting that. She’s also a Christian so that kind of relates to it.

Really the film was creepy and just brutal.

To be honest I might sound stupid and be a pussy. Seriously I was covering my eyes a bit yet just seeing a bit of the screen. Because to be honest and I agree with Jeremy Jahns before I saw this I think two days ago or some shit. If you’ve seen the trailers and commericals. You kind of know some stuff of what to expect. Yet their are some parts yet still just the way it’s portrayed.

Seriously I’ve just took a long time away from horror movies I felt weird after the movie ended. It was good and I think that’s kind of a good thing. If the film is scary then it’s done it’s job it depends on your opinion. Yet also again I was uncomfortable.

To sound stupid and silly seriously in my head I for some reason wanted that Annabelle doll to start talking and making dark jokes something like Slappy from Goosebumps. Yet that shit wasn’t gonna happen. Mainly it was in my mindset okay then it won’t be that scary ha stop.

In fact after this my Nana is interested in that The Hitman’s Bodyguard. I’ve seen the commercials. Seriously it seems funny despite it’s getting mixed scores on Rotten Tomatos. I’m even interested in it just as the movie ended I even said I just wanna see that ha stop. I also even said to my Nana I wanna watch BVS the ultimate edition on Blu Ray. Yet looked on the guide some OK KO Let’s Be Heroes was gonna come on Boomerang. Just another story lol.

Jesus honestly I’m fine lol just fine that word but even my mom asked are you gonna have nightmares or some shit. I told her kind of no but it’s imprinted in my head. But think I remember I told her I’m okay.

Seriously I liked the film even the score was good. I even saw that was popping up when I’ve been listening to the BVS sound track. Yes BVS is dark yet I like that film.

Really it was nice oh no not kind oh my head lol stop. Kind of a nice introduction to The Conjuring franchise. The first two Conjuring films seem great and really I have to make my own opinion on the first Annabelle film.

Including and I’m gonna get into spoilers. Because I even talked to my Nana. This film has some easter eggs. Including possibly hinting at other paranormal creatures in The Conjuring universe.

Seriously I like the idea it’s a cinematic universe and theirs so many of these paranormal beings and I remember looking up more of the franchise maybe two months ago or last month of how the films mainly the main films are based on and well inspired by some real cases. It’s another thing to talk about.

As a guy who likes horror well not the biggest fan but the idea just a cinematic universe finally with all these creatures is kick ass said that in my head random words. Mainly because as a guy who was or is still kind of obsessed with ideas like Freddy Vs Jason and… really it’s mainly shit like that if shit ever crossovered. Despite I thought of some funny shit let’s not be realistic imagine all of these demons and whatever just hanging out, Annabelle, The Nun, The Crooked Man, and any other of them that appeared in these films just partying and making people’s lives miserable. It’s stupid dark humor normal to smile. Maybe all getting drunk.

Including since mentioning those other creatures these paranormal beings. So the one thing that really got to me that got me thinking it’s a brief little scene and I’m gonna talk about spoilers now.

Theirs this brief little scene where the sister is talking about a picture featuring her and some friends that are nuns. I’ll leave sister it’s a nun thing but theirs a little mention and looking at it I thought. Including the sister nun does not know who this person is in the picture. I thought to myself in a way my God that’s a easter egg. Including told my Nana I’ll tell her later and as the credits rolled.

It’s a little easter egg showcasing what appears to be The Nun character that they gonna make a film I think they may have wrapped filming I don’t know. Theirs gonna be a film next year and the character appeared in The Conjuring 2.

Including one little moment it’s mentioned but it doesn’t relate much to the situation the characters are in. Theirs this creature that appears in the scene where the two older girls are in. Including they were talking about a tale. Yet it’s not important much yet the characters mention it. It’s not really related to Annabelle and it’s not the demon that possesses the doll.

It’s a stupid guess it’s maybe a new paranormal being they’ve introduced in the franchise and they wanna make a film based upon it. Or it’s already been introduced yet I’ve haven’t seen any announcements yet.

Including theirs this thing and one of the older girls messes with a Scarecrow and thought it was gonna do something. Then it returns in the film and as a joke in my head throughout the film I want a Scarecrow film. Because I was expecting the shit. It was used yet it seems to have the demon possessing Annabelle unless I’m getting designs mixed up.

Then we have the ending of the film which disturbs me including one of the reasons I decided to look up the film on Wikipedia. So it turns out it is the ending no sorry the set up for the original Annabelle film. Which is nice. Including no offense ha stop but unless they want to no offense I feel this seems to be the last full on Annabelle solo film. Maybe they might put her in again.

Also another thing just seriously the ending I’m like uncomfortable ha stop just the way it sets up stuff said in my head worried yet just no I’m concerned about these characters and that’s a good thing ha stop.

But the other thing I guess it’s a easter egg the real Annabelle doll well another version of it. I remember finding this out when looking up more of the franchise. Mainly when the news of The Crooked Man movie was announced or some shit and looked up a clip and watched a bit of what the character was ha normal to smile.

Yet the original or well real Annabelle is a raggedy Ann doll and I think that was meant to be an easter egg. I think and remember comments below YouTube talking about how the people who own the rights to the doll didn’t want that to be portrayed. Despite it’s cute yet the simple version just…..ha normal to smile just the idea it can be unexpecting yet reasonable they don’t want their dolls to be represented like that on film. Still the Annabelle doll in the film is creepy as fuck.

Then I also found this out and disappointed I didn’t stay to wait. Just my reaction and the aftermath I thought the whole turning head which I even covered my eyes because I expected the doll to turn it’s head very quick but it didn’t seem much.

Their is is a literal post credits scene hinting or just revealing The Nun to set up the film next year. I gonna look that up yet it sounds really cool.

Wow I seem a bit better lol normal to smile. Just it was so fresh and just seeing the film for the first time you get concerned about oh God how am I gonna deal with this for the rest of the week.

Yet talking about it also tv on ha normal to smile sorry I’m a bit better. It depends. But Jesus that left a mark. Or just I’ve got a taste of the no not the Annabelle franchise The Conjuring franchise.

I’m kind of interested a bit more if I’m bit more terrified lol.

Also thought of this and looked at the paragraph talking about the post credits scene I remember the guy who made this is gonna direct the Shazam film holy shit.

Okay got tags down and felt scared a bit finishing up the last two ones. Also ticks yet yeah liked the movie quite a bit.

Jesus and gonna think other shit ha normal to smile but okay smiling is okay that is can’t spell inprent right I wanna finish this ha. Even the previews. I will say I’m kind of interested in IT now.

Honestly even thought of stupid funny shit like Twisted Metal and Jesus I wanna think of Darkseid and Doomsday more

edit I mean Jesus I put Catfish The TV Show on also ticks same shit edit sorry just oh gonna do other shit