#More Advice For Aspiring Authors

[thatsbelievable]

#Yet Even Still More Tips For Aspiring Authors #author #authors #writer #writers #writing #literature #books #tips #tricks #life hacks #advice #helpful hints

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

Mastering the Art of Plotting a Well-Paced Novel

In this post, I'll delve into the essential skill of pacing, and explore how pacing can make or break your novel. By understanding the impact of pacing on your story's flow and tension, you will be able to create a well-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged and turning the pages. I'll be unlocking the secrets of pacing and learn how to master the art of plotting a well-paced novel.

Pacing is a critical element in storytelling that determines the speed and rhythm at which events unfold in your novel. It encompasses the tempo, timing, and sequencing of scenes, dialogue, and action. Proper pacing ensures that your story moves along smoothly, building suspense and maintaining readers' interest.

Imagine

Imagine reading a book where everything happens at a breakneck pace, with no time to pause and absorb the crucial moments. Alternatively, consider a book where the plot drags on, leaving readers disengaged and tempted to put the book down. Both scenarios highlight the importance of pacing.

For aspiring writers and authors, mastering the art of pacing is key to creating a captivating story that resonates with readers. It involves skillfully balancing action scenes with quieter moments, strategically revealing information, and strategically varying the pace to maintain tension and anticipation.

Throughout this blog post, I'll help you explore various techniques, tips, and strategies to help you unlock the secrets of pacing and plot a well-paced novel. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or looking to refine your storytelling skills, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice to help you develop a story that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. So, let's dive in and uncover the mysteries of pacing.

Setting the Stage: The Power of Pacing

Pacing is the rhythm and tempo at which your story unfolds. It's like music for your reader's mind, setting the tone and guiding their emotions. It determines the speed at which events occur and plays a crucial role in maintaining reader interest. Think of pacing as the heartbeat of your novel, keeping your audience eagerly turning the pages.

But why is pacing so important in storytelling? Well, imagine reading a book where nothing exciting ever happens, or one where everything is rushed and there's no time to breathe. It's like having a roller coaster with no thrilling drops or a movie without any suspenseful moments. Pacing is what keeps your readers engaged and invested in your story.

One of the key aspects of pacing is its ability to increase tension. By carefully controlling the speed at which events unfold, you can build anticipation and leave your readers on the edge of their seats. Whether it's a nail-biting chase scene or a climactic confrontation, pacing can make these moments all the more exhilarating.

Pacing also allows for crucial moments to be savored. It gives your readers the chance to fully immerse themselves in the emotions and details that matter. By slowing down during these pivotal scenes, you can create a deeper connection between your characters and your audience, making the experience more impactful.

Additionally, pacing can be used to maintain tension throughout your story, even during quieter moments. By varying the speed of your narrative, you can keep your readers engaged and curious about what's to come. This ebb and flow of tension will keep them hooked from start to finish.

So, by understanding the power of pacing, you will be equipped to create a well-paced novel that captivates your readers. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into specific techniques for creating suspense and savoring crucial moments in the upcoming sections. Your journey to mastering the art of plotting a well-paced novel starts here!

Speeding Things Up: Techniques for Creating Suspense

Suspense is a powerful tool for keeping readers on the edge of their seats. As a writer, you have the ability to control the pace of your novel and create nail-biting suspense that will captivate your readers. In this section, we will explore techniques for speeding up the pace of your story and intensifying the suspense.

One effective technique is to use short, snappy sentences. By keeping your sentences concise and to the point, you can create a sense of urgency and make the action feel more immediate. This will keep your readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next.

Another technique to consider is the use of cliffhangers. Ending a chapter or section with a cliffhanger leaves your readers hanging and desperate to know what happens next. This can be achieved by introducing a sudden twist, revealing a shocking secret, or leaving a crucial question unanswered. The suspense created by these cliffhangers will keep your readers turning the pages.

Plot twists are also a great way to speed up the pace and create suspense. By introducing unexpected turns of events, you can keep your readers guessing and on the edge of their seats. These twists can be major revelations or small surprises that add intrigue to your story.

Lastly, foreshadowing is a technique that can heighten anticipation and create suspense. By dropping subtle hints or clues about future events, you can build tension and make your readers eager to uncover the truth. Foreshadowing can be done through dialogue, descriptions, or even symbolic elements in your story.

By mastering these techniques, you will be able to weave a thrilling narrative that keeps readers hooked from the first page to the last. So, grab your pen and get ready to speed up the pace of your novel, creating suspense that will leave your readers breathless.

Slowing Down: Savoring Crucial Moments

While it's important to maintain a fast pace in your novel, it's equally crucial to slow down and allow readers to savor crucial moments. These are the scenes that make your story come alive, the moments that leave a lasting impact on your readers. By creating breathing room in your narrative, you give readers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in poignant scenes and important character development.

One effective way to slow down the pace is through the use of vivid descriptions. Paint a picture with your words, allowing readers to see, hear, smell, and feel the world you've created. By providing rich sensory details, you transport your readers into the heart of the scene, making it more memorable and engaging.

Internal monologues are another powerful tool for slowing down the pace. These moments of introspection allow readers to delve deeper into your characters' thoughts and emotions. By revealing their innermost desires, fears, and conflicts, you add depth and complexity to your story.

Reflective moments also play a crucial role in savoring crucial moments. These are the pauses in the action where characters contemplate their choices, reflect on their past, or ponder the future. These moments of introspection not only add depth and texture to your story but also give readers a chance to connect with your characters on a deeper level.

By finding the right balance between fast-paced action and slower, introspective scenes, you will create a well-rounded narrative that captivates readers on multiple levels. So, take the time to slow down and savor those crucial moments in your novel. Your readers will thank you for it.

The Art of Variation: Maintaining Tension Through Pacing

In this section, we will dive deeper into the art of variation in pacing and how it can maintain tension throughout your novel. As a writer, it's crucial to understand that pacing is not just about maintaining a consistent speed throughout your story. It's about strategically alternating between faster and slower-paced scenes to create a rollercoaster effect that keeps readers engaged and guessing.

By varying the pace of your narrative, you can effectively build and release tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Faster-paced scenes filled with action, suspense, and conflict propel the story forward, while slower-paced scenes allow for character development, introspection, and reflection. This ebb and flow of pacing creates a dynamic reading experience that captivates your audience.

Strategic placement of high-intensity scenes is also key to maintaining tension. These scenes should be strategically scattered throughout your novel, serving as climactic moments that heighten the stakes and keep readers invested. However, it's equally important to provide moments of respite, where the pace slows down, allowing readers to catch their breath and process the events unfolding.

By mastering the art of variation in pacing, you can create a well-paced novel that holds readers' attention from start to finish. So, as you plot your story, remember to carefully consider the pacing of each scene, alternating between faster and slower moments, strategically placing high-intensity scenes, and providing moments of respite. This will ensure that your readers are taken on a thrilling and immersive journey through your narrative.

Beyond Words: Enhancing Mood and Atmosphere

Pacing is not just about the words on the page; it has the power to enhance the mood and atmosphere of your narrative. By understanding how the speed of pacing can influence the reader's emotional experience, you can take your storytelling to the next level.

One technique for using pacing to set the tone is to vary the speed of your narrative. By slowing down during introspective moments or important scenes, you can create a sense of depth and allow readers to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere you're trying to convey. On the other hand, speeding up the pacing during action-packed sequences can generate excitement and keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Pacing can also be used to create tension. By gradually increasing the speed of your narrative, you can build anticipation and make readers feel a sense of urgency. Conversely, slowing down the pacing can create a sense of unease or suspense, leaving readers hanging on every word.

Furthermore, pacing can evoke specific emotions. By carefully choosing the speed at which events unfold, you can elicit feelings of joy, sadness, fear, or even nostalgia. Experimenting with pacing as a tool to guide readers through important plot points and evoke desired emotional responses will add depth and richness to your storytelling.

Remember, pacing goes beyond words. By mastering the art of pacing, you can enhance the mood and atmosphere of your novel, captivating readers and keeping them engaged from beginning to end.

Plotting with Purpose: Pacing and Story Structure

Pacing is not just about speed; it's also about structuring your story in a way that keeps readers hooked. In this section, we will delve into how pacing works hand in hand with story structure. We will explore how to strategically escalate and release tension, ramping up the pace during pivotal moments and allowing for quieter moments of reflection. By aligning your story structure with the pacing of your novel, you will create a cohesive and engaging reading experience that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

To plot with purpose, it's important to understand the relationship between pacing and story structure. Your story structure provides the framework for your plot, while pacing determines the rhythm and tempo of your narrative. By carefully crafting your story structure, you can strategically place high-tension moments and slower-paced scenes to create a dynamic reading experience.

Consider the rising action, climax, and resolution of your story. These key plot points should align with the pacing of your novel. As you approach the climax, the pace should quicken, building tension and excitement. This is the moment where readers are on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to find out what happens next. After the climax, the pace can gradually slow down, allowing for reflection and resolution.

By understanding the relationship between pacing and story structure, you can create a well-paced novel that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. So, as you plot your own story, remember to consider the purpose behind each scene and how it contributes to the overall pacing of your narrative.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of pacing is a journey that requires practice and experimentation. As a writer, you have the power to control the ebb and flow of your story, guiding readers through a rollercoaster of emotions and keeping them engaged until the very end.

By understanding the impact of pacing on your story's flow, tension, and emotional resonance, you will be able to create a well-paced novel that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Whether you choose to speed things up to create suspense or slow down to savor crucial moments, pacing is a tool that can enhance the overall reading experience.

Remember, pacing is not just about the speed of your story. It's about finding the right balance, the perfect rhythm that suits your narrative. Experiment with different techniques, play with the pacing of your scenes, and pay attention to how it affects the overall structure and tension of your novel.

So go ahead and unlock the secrets of pacing, and embark on the exhilarating adventure of plotting a well-paced novel that captivates readers and leaves a lasting impression. Happy writing!

#thewriteadviceforwriters #writing #on writing #creative writing #writeblr #writers block #how to write #writing tips #writers and poets #pacing #writing advice #advice

[nanowrimo]

Pro Tips from a NaNo Coach: How to Write a Clean(ish) Fast Draft

NaNoWriMo can seem like a daunting task sometimes, for NaNo newbies and veterans alike. Fortunately, our NaNo Coaches are here to help guide you through November! Today, author Jesse Q. Sutanto is here to share her advice on how to set yourself up for noveling success:

Dear Nano-ers,

My first book took me three years to cobble together. During that time, I joined Absolute Write—a free writers forum which I completely love and recommend to all aspiring writers—and I made a friend who convinced me to try doing NaNoWriMo. I was completely unconvinced, but I am a people-pleaser and I can never say no, so I agreed to try it for my second novel.

My second novel took me less than a month to write. It was a complete mess, but it was also a revelation. Often, I felt myself falling into that writing Holy Grail—the hole which consumes you, makes you forget the rest of the world, and absorbs you completely in the world you are creating on paper. I loved the process deeply, and never looked back since. All of my subsequent books have since been written in a matter of months. 

And you know what? They were all a horrific mess. I did not learn how to do a clean and fast draft until my NINTH book, and I don’t think I would’ve ever learnt without the help of NaNoWriMo. So here are my tips on how to best tackle a sprint-a-thon like NaNo. 

1. Try to come up with a loose outline.

When I first started writing, I was a pure pantser. I had no idea what was going to happen before I sat down to write. This is a completely legit way of writing, but I have since learned that it is massively helpful to have an idea, even a vague one, of what you are trying to say with your book. What was really helpful for me was to sit down for just five minutes before writing each scene and try to envision what I wanted the scene to achieve. Once I had that in mind, the scene became much easier to write. 

2. Break down your writing time.

Ever heard of the Pomodoro technique? In order to hit 50,000 words a month, you need to write around 1,600 words a day. That is a heck of a lot of words to write! Break it down. Set 10 or 15-minute timers and use that to your advantage. Trust me, if you told me to sit down and write 1,600 words, I would be like, “Omg that’s too much!” But if you told me to just write for 15 minutes, that feels a lot more doable. 

3. Give yourself permission to write trash.

Before each writing session, I actually say out loud: “I am going to write trash.” And this gives me permission to write whatever comes to my mind without judgment. You can always edit later, but for now, focus on letting the words out on paper. 

4. Lean on others for support.

I made the mistake of thinking that writing is a lonely vocation. In fact, it is one of the most social things I could do. Social media, while a double-edged sword, has done so much for the writing community. I have found all of my close writer friends through social media, and I chat with them every day and consider them my close, lifelong friends. Don’t be afraid to reach out and make connections within the community. You are not alone. 

Jesse Q. Sutanto is the award-winning, bestselling author of Dial A for Aunties, Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Well, That Was Unexpected, The Obsession, and Theo Tan and the Fox Spirit. The film rights to her women’s fiction, Dial A for Aunties, was bought by Netflix in a competitive bidding war, and the TV rights to Vera Wong was bought by Warner Bros, with Oprah and Mindy Kaling attached to produce. She has a master’s degree in creative writing from Oxford University, though she hasn’t found a way of saying that without sounding obnoxious.

#nanowrimo #writing #nanowrimo 2023 #writing advice #writing tips #writblr #by nano coach #jesse q. sutanto

[art]

Creator Spotlight: @scottlava

Scott Campbell has illustrated numerous children’s books, including SKULLS!, Sleepy the Goodnight Buddy, and Zombie In Love. He was author/illustrator of the much-loved HUG MACHINE. He enjoyed a long career in video games, where he art directed the critically acclaimed game Psychonauts and Brutal Legend for Double Fine Productions. Great Showdowns is his ongoing online series. Scott’s work has appeared in galleries and publications around the world. You can see more of his work at ScottC.com.

Check out our interview with Scott below!

How did you get your start in art, and more specifically, with Great Showdowns?

I went to art school in San Francisco and have been painting, making comics, and designing video games ever since with Double Fine Productions. The Great Showdowns began at the first Crazy 4 Cult exhibition at Gallery 1988 in Los Angeles back in 2007, an exhibition of artwork inspired by the cult classics of cinema. The first 10 little paintings were intended to be snack-sized pieces for people to easily collect. They began with perhaps the most iconic of wild west showdowns from A Fistful of Dollars with Clint Eastwood. I pulled some of my favorite moments from films like Ghostbusters, Predator, Exorcist, and Planet of the Apes and placed them all in simple little dust-colored squares as if they were in the dirt streets of a wild west town. They began as good versus evil but grew to all kinds of showdowns between people and objects and often moments of great love between people. I started a tumblr for them a few years later, and I have been posting them ever since. We have published three Great Showdown books and have had 3 solo exhibitions along with worldwide scavenger hunts. There are over a thousand of them up on the site by now, and i do not plan on stopping any time soon.

Which 3 famous artists (dead or alive) would you invite to your dinner party?

I would like to gather Jim Henson, Walt Disney, and Richard Scarry together for dinner and chats. They have all created my favorite and most joyful worlds. I think we would have some of the most delightful chats.

What is a medium that you have always been intrigued by but would never use yourself?

I love collage, but every time I try it, I get frustrated and just quit. Someday I will get into it when my kids are old enough to really mess around with various mediums. I plan to have boxes of textiles and magazines for them to just annihilate.

What does your work set up look like?

Oh, it’s just a table with an old mug for water and an old plate for my watercolors and not much else. I share a studio with a bunch of very inspiring people who make wonderful things, from fabricated creatures to VR experiences and films. I have probably the simplest little area in the space. I do have an old oak flat file that I love to look at.

Advice you would give to an aspiring creator?

The biggest thing I would push upon everyone would be to not fret about one’s visual style. The style will grow and present itself as you experiment with mediums and expose yourself to various cultural delights. Just have fun and try all kinds of things.

What is one interaction you had from a fan of yours that has stuck with you over the years?

I gave a game design presentation many years back on a game I had art directed at the time called Brutal Legend at a game conference in Leeds. The game followed a roadie to the age of metal in the land of metal, with demons and chrome volcanoes and hot rods growing from the ground, and rivers of happy and cheering fans. After the talk, I spoke with someone whose work I had seen in earlier portfolio reviews at the conference. She was very shy but incredibly talented. She came up to me after the talk feeling pretty emotional and inspired to the point of tears and sobbing. It was probably the most extreme reaction I have ever gotten from someone, and it touched me deep down in my guts. That’s why we make things! To bring on the tears!

From video games, to illustrations, and children's books, you've worked on many projects. What was the most challenging, yet rewarding one?

Video games take an enormous amount of work over a long period of time and rely on the skills and talent of many like-minded people. It is sometimes difficult to corral such an effort, but it is incredibly rewarding to see it all come together to create such epic worlds. That said, though, children’s books are very enjoyable in a cozy way. It’s just me right there working on a world and all the pressure is on me. I cannot rely on all the talented people around me to make it look great.

Who on Tumblr inspires you and why?

I love perusing old fashion and film blogs and artists like Bob Jinx and Neil Sanders and collections like Its Colossal.

Thanks for stopping by, Scott! Be sure to check out the Great Showdowns over at @scottlava!

#creator spotlight #artists on tumblr #scott campbell #great showdowns

[broodparasitism]

Everything I've Learned About Querying from Talking to Agents (And Traditionally Published Authors)

Disclaimer: I'm UK based, as was everyone I spoke to. I didn't include any country specific advice, just what I think is applicable regardless of where you live, put it might be useful to know this is from a UK lens.

As part of my course I was able to go to a lot of talks with literary agents (a mixture of literary, genre and nonfiction) and I picked up a lot of useful information - a lot of it not quite so bleak as I feared! - and thought it might be helpful to compile it for anyone looking to query agents in the future, so, here goes, under the readmore:

Querying

Remember that agents want to find and publish new authors. They're not at odds with/out to get aspiring authors. They want to work with us. This is someone you're working with, so don't pick an agent you won't get along with.

Manuscripts should be queried when they are as close to finished you are able to manage. There are a few agents that are open to incomplete manuscripts, yes, but many more that flat-out refuse unfinished work. Manuscripts generally go through about ~15 rounds of edits before landing an agent.

Send query letters in batches - around five or six at a time. There is no limit to how many agents you can contact, but you can't contact more than one agent from the same agency, so make sure you've selected the most suitable one from each.

In most cases you can't submit the same manuscript to the same agent twice - so having it be as finished as possible is all the more vital.

Some of them will take a long time to respond. Some never respond at all. If it's been three months of nothing, it's safe to assume that's a rejection.

One agent said she took on about two new authors a year, which likely isn't true for them all but is probably a reasonable average. For all of them, the amount of queries they get can be in the three digits a week. I can't emphasis enough just how many they get. I take a lot of authors to mean that means it's a 0.001% chance and despair, but that assumes each manuscript has an equal chance, and they don't. Correct spelling and grammar, writing in a genre that appeals to the agent, quality sample chapters and respecting the submission guidelines (more on this later) improve the odds by a significiant amount.

One agent said he rejected about half of his submissions from the first page due to spelling and grammar mistakes and cliches, for perspective.

You'll need to pitch your book. If your book cannot be pitched in three sentences, that's a sign it has too much going on and you'll need to do some pruning.

Please don't panic if you cannot come up with an accurate pitch for your book on the fly - you're not supposed to be able to do that. A pitch takes many edits and drafts just like a manuscript.

Send your first three chapters and a synopsis (this should be a page, or two pages double spaced. It should not include every single plot point though, again, if major things end up not there at all, question if they're necessary for the manuscript).

Three chapters is the standard - as in, if the agent web page doesn't specify how many, that's what to opt for. If they say anything else, for the love of God listen. If there was a single piece of advice that the agents emphasised above all else, it was to just follow each submission requirement to a T.

There needs to be a strong hook in these chapters. If your manuscript is a bit of a slow burn, that's fine, but you can cheat a bit with a 'prologue' that's actually a very hook-y scene from later on.

Read the agent's bio page throughly and make a note of what they like, who they represent, and what they're looking for, and highlight this in the query letter.

Your query letter has to say a little about you. It doesn't have to be really personal information (but say if you're under 40, because that's rare for authors and they like that), and keep it professional but not stiff, they say. If you have any writing credentials, such as awards won or creative writing degrees, include them, as with any real life experiences that pertains to the content of your book. But no one will be rejected on the basis of not having had an interesting enough life.

Apparently one of the biggest mistakes for debut authors tend to be too many filler scenes.

In terms of looking for comparative titles, think about where you want your book to 'sit'. Often literally - go into bookstores and visualise where on the displays you could see it. It's really helpful if you can identify a specific marketing niche. Though you want to choose comparisons that sell well, but going for really obvious choices looks lazy. A TV or film comparison is fine - as long as it genuinely can be compared.

Do not call yourself the next Donna Tartt. Or JK Rowling. They are sick of this.

Don't trust agents who request exclusive submission.

Or any with a fee. Agents take a percentage of your advance/royalties - you never pay them directly.

In terms of trends (crowd booing), there's been a boom in uplifting, optimistic fiction, but more recently dark fiction has been rising in popularity and looks to have its moment. Fantasy and Gothic are both huge right now. Publishers also love what's called upmarket/book club fiction - books that toe the line between genre and literary.

But publishers aren't clairvoyant and writing to trends is a futile effort, so don't let them shape what you want to write. Some writing advice I got that I loved was to not even THINK about marketability until draft three or four.

If any agent requests your full manuscript - this is crucial - email every other agent you're waiting to hear back from and let them know. This will take your manuscript from the slush pile to the top, and you are more likely to get more offers of representation.

The agent that flatters you the most isn't necessarily the best. Be sure to ask them what their plan for the book is, and what publishers they're planning to send it to - you want them to have a precise vision. It might be that their vision misses the mark on what kind of book you wanted to write, and if so, they aren't the right agent for you.

Research like hell! A good place to start is finding out who represents authors you love (the acknowledgements pages are really helpful here). if you can, getting access to The Writer's and Artist's Yearbook is very helpful, as is The Bookseller, the lattr for checking up on specific agents. (I was warned the website search engine is awful, so google "[name] the Bookseller" to see what they've sold. That said, only the huge deals get reported, so it's not indicative of everyone they take on.

I also want to add Juliet Mushen's article on what makes a good query. I owe a lot to it, and I feel like it's a useful template!

Once Agented

Agents send a manuscript to about 18-25 publishers, typically. Most books will end up having more than one publisher interested.

It can be hard to move genres after publishing a debut novel, especially for book two, not only because it means it takes longer for you to establish yourself, but the agent that may be perfect for dealing with manuscripts for book one might not have the skills for book two.

Ask the agency/publisher about their translation rights, their rights to the US market, and film and TV rights. Ask also what time of year the book is going to come out, if being published.

It's less the book agents are interested in than it is you as an author. You will be asked what you're going to write next, so have an answer. Just an answer - you don't need another manuscript ready to go. One author said she flat-out made up a book idea on the spot, and she got away with it - just have an answer. (This is also useful to put on the query letter.)

Caveat that this is, of course, not a foolproof guide to getting a book deal, nor is it in any way unconditional endorsement of how the industry works - I just thought it would be useful to know.

#writeblr #wtwcommunity #traditional publishing #literary agents #wrting advice #kinda #eta a readmore link

[rebelspykatie]

RWRB Steddie AU - Part 1

Wayne Munson who accidentally won the presidency running on a progressive working class ticket. Eddie Munson, the first son that causes international incidents without even trying. Like the time he made a crude hand gesture towards a foreign dignitary thinking he was saluting them. Or the time he connected his phone to the speakers during a dnc event and blasted Metallica through the entire arena. Or the time he knocked over a child on the lawn of the White House during the annual Easter egg hunt and had to issue an apology to a five year old for stealing their eggs. 

Wayne has reprimanded him more than he’s spoken in front of Congress. The secret service hates him, especially Hopper, who has to drag him back inside when he tries to escape down the trellis and cockblocks him from flirting with the barista at the Starbucks right outside of the White House. 

But nobody hates him more than Prince Steven. He doesn’t even understand why Steve hates him, only that their first interaction was disastrous, leaving Eddie fuming and confused. He remembers seeing Steve all over those teen magazines before Wayne had any political aspirations, his now gorgeous locks once too big for his tiny head and hazel eyes staring back at him from the glossy pages. Gareth never let him hear the end of it when he found those magazines tucked away under his bed, a collection that only grew over the years as Steve got more attractive.

The frosty reception from Steve had Eddie doubting every good thing those magazines ever said about how charming the prince could be. Sure, not a single hair was out of place on his stupid head and his polos were ironed within an inch of their lives, but his smile was fake and a bitchy retort slipped out of his mouth before Eddie could even introduce himself. 

He gave up on playing nice after that, not heeding his Uncle’s advice to stay away and not cause another international scandal while he was trying to make a deal with their prime minister. He practically begged Eddie to keep his big, dumb mouth shut.

Which is of course why The Incident happened. Eddie was a bit too drunk at a dinner for diplomats and their families. He approached Steve and started going on about the monarchy, a bit too loudly, where a very nosy reporter could hear. And that reporter wrote a scathing article about the first son not believing in tradition and how he was trying to undermine the authority of the crown, dredging up old tweets about how useless monarchies are and how Steve is handed things on a silver spoon. 

Wayne’s deal is in jeopardy, so he’s sent to smooth over international relations with the crown, which is a horrible idea considering Eddie’s track record. Staged photo ops have always made Eddie uncomfortable, but he sucks it up for Wayne. He winds up enjoying himself more than he thought possible in Steve’s presence because one of their PR stops is at a teen center where a group of kids regularly plays dnd. 

If it weren’t for a swift tug on the back of his suit from Hopper, Eddie would be standing on the table flailing around about a campaign, having already forgotten about the swath of reporters following them around on this tour. Steve doesn’t appear to know anything about dnd, but the little curly headed boy with an infectious toothy smile keeps tugging him around, talking a mile a minute while Steve fondly rolls his eyes. It’s the most relaxed Eddie has ever seen him. 

He learns that they’re both insomniacs during that trip, stumbling into the kitchen at 2am only to find Steve already there, riffling through the pantry. It’s the first time he’s ever seen Steve without the ramrod straight posture, notices the circles under his eyes and the way he’s always got a line of tension in his jaw. They come to some kind of truce in the dark of night over twin bowls of cereal. Something inside of Eddie unfurls at that, lets go of whatever weird grudge he was holding after their first interaction. 

It starts with a text. Steve sends him an article with the most ridiculous picture of Eddie, asks if he wakes up looking like that every morning. They’re teasing each other, taunting remarks about their status, realizing they have more in common than they thought. All summer, Eddie’s eyes are glued to his phone, anticipating texts from HRH (his royal hairiness), late nights dedicated to learning everything about Steve. Chrissy, the vice president’s daughter, corners him before the annual Halloween Party, forces him to invite his new friend Steve. She says it with a tone he doesn’t really understand, but it’s one that brooks no argument.

Maybe he learns all too well what Chrissy meant when it’s close to midnight and Steve pushes him against a tree outside and kisses him so thoroughly Eddie’s lost all oxygen to his brain. It changes the course of his entire life. He can’t stop thinking about it, feels the phantom taste of Steve on his tongue, but Steve isn’t answering his calls and Eddie doesn’t get a chance to corner him until a charity event almost a month later. 

They take each other apart that night, spend hours learning each other's bodies. Confessions spilled into the sheets they’re tangled in. Steve admits that his father arranged for him to be seen with Nancy Wheeler, who he has no interest in. They decide to try something casual, see each other when they can, get some much needed relief from the public eye. But Eddie’s never been the casual type, and he doesn’t think Steve is either, not after their nightly talks. He falls hard and eagerly hopes for more every time they meet up, wishing that Steve wouldn’t flee from his bed the next morning. 

Wayne’s pretty busy, running a country and all, but he eventually puts the pieces together on Eddie’s disappearances and his trips coinciding with events where Steve is present. His uncle knows him better than to think they’re just friends. Eddie never really had to come out to his Uncle, but they do have an intense talk on whether he’s ready to be perceived in that way by everyone in the world, Wayne apologizing for putting him in the spotlight. 

But Eddie feels forever about Steve. And Wayne’s presidency brought him to this man, to the love of his life, so there’s no way he could be upset about any of it.

If only Steve felt forever about him.

Part 2

#stranger things #steve harrington #eddie munson #steddie #katie writes #you get two stories today as I continue to try to catch up with what i posted on twitter already #thank you for your patience #wayne munson

[mimble-sparklepudding]

Autumn Symbolism OC Questions.

A little list of OC questions based on Autumn Symbolism in North West European Heraldry. Obviously many of these things have different symbolic meanings in different cultures and have had different associations at different points in history - this list is intended more for diversion than serious historical analysis.

Apples - Liberality, Felicity, Peace and Salvation.

What is your OC's happiest memory? Does remembering it still make them smile? Or is there a wistful melancholy when they recall it?

Is your OC open to new ideas and ways of doing things? Or do they treat such suggestions with great suspicion and prefer to stick to tried and tested approaches and values?

Does your OC find it easy to express themselves in words? Or do they sometimes struggle to find the appropriate word or phrase? Are they eloquent in one language, but less practiced in another?

Is your OC happiest when things are peaceful and harmonious? Or do they secretly (or not so secretly) relish more drama or excitement?

How far would your OC go to protect others from harm? Have they ever accepted injury or suffering in order to keep others safe? Would they do so again?

Acorns - Independence and Ambition.

Does your OC find it easy to make their own decisions and come up with their own plans? Or would they prefer to ask for advice or guidance from others? Perhaps they might even wish that another could take major decisions out of their hands sometimes?

How much freedom would your OC willingly give up for the sake of a relationship or family commitment? How much would they give up grudgingly?

What is your OC's greatest aspiration? Is there an ultimate outcome towards which they are constantly striving? Is this something they keep secret from those around them?

Does your OC believe power is best held by those with the will to seize it? Or are they deeply suspicious of those with grand ambitions to hold authority over others?

Does your OC enjoy teaching others and nurturing their skills to the point they are masters in their own right? Or would they prefer to hoard certain strategies or wisdom in order to guarantee their own pre-eminence?

Squirrels - Thrift, Caution and Conception.

Does your OC carefully consider all possible outcomes before embarking upon a course of action? Or are they more inclined to launch themselves head-first into whatever they decide is the best plan at the time?

Is your OC frugal with their money? Carefully budgeting and saving against unexpected eventualities? Or are they more likely to spend money when they have it and not worry about it until it runs out?

Is your OC someone to whom others come for advice or help with planning? Or would their companions or associates laugh at such a notion?

What does your OC most fear happening should their plans go awry or their intended aim be thwarted? Humiliation? Loss of status? Or something more dangerous still?

What is something that your OC would never spend money on for themselves, but would be delighted to receive as a gift from another?

Oak Leaves - Faith and Endurance.

Does your OC adhere to any particular religious faith? To what degree do they follow the tenets of that faith? Are they a believer in name only? Or are they zealous in their convictions?

Has your OC ever had their beliefs significantly challenged? Have they perhaps seen things that made them doubt their faith? Or encountered opposing arguments they found it hard to refute?

How does your OC cope with hardship? Are they stoic and uncomplaining? Or do they whine and grumble? Is their response to hardship an accurate indication of their actual character or degree of resilience?

Do others have faith in your OC? Is this due to their past accomplishments? Or are they just exceptionally charismatic and easily able to inspire belief in others?

What has been the most challenging obstacle or hazard your OC has needed to overcome? How did they manage this? Was it through grit and determination? Guile and cunning? Or simply dumb luck?

Hedgehogs - Thoughtfulness and Provision.

Is your OC prone to introspection and reflection? Or do they not have much of an inner life in that regard? Do they ever find themselves ruminating upon things they would sooner forget? Or do others despair of them ever learning from their mistakes?

Does your OC like to hoard items and treasures? Or do they prefer to have few possessions? How do they feel about those with a different approach to such things?

How good is your OC at remembering small details about other people, such as their favourite foods or their date of birth? Do they find it easier to remember details about people they find attractive or potentially useful?

Does your OC always ensure they have sufficient material supplies or food stores to last through lean or difficult times? Or are they more inclined to rely (or assume they can rely) upon the generosity of others should they run low on resources?

What gift or reward is your OC most proud of having bestowed upon another person? What makes them proud about it? The expense or rarity? The time or effort expended in obtaining it? Or how clever or insightful they were in deciding upon it?

Wheat Sheaves - Plenty and Commendable Hospitality.

Is your OC prone to excessive consumption? If so, then are they eager for food in general? Or are there specific treats upon which they are inclined to gorge themselves? Or are they more focused upon the consumption of drink, illicit substances or engagement in darker vices still?

Does your OC enjoy playing the perfect host or hostess? Are they skilled at courtesy and making guests feel welcome? Or do they suffer others in their personal space most unwillingly?

If your OC could ensure a limitless supply of one particular thing then what would that be? An endless fountain of wine? A bottomless sack of food to distribute amongst the masses? An infinite library of every book ever written? Or perhaps something even more esoteric?

What makes your OC feel most welcome when visiting somewhere for the first time? Do they have specific cultural beliefs about how guests should be treated? Have they ever travelled somewhere with different social practices? How did they respond to this?

How does your OC feel about striking disparities in wealth or access to essential resources? Do they feel such things should be distributed more (or even totally) equitably? Or are they disinclined to interfere with the current ordering of society? Do they believe in paternalism and charity as an effectives mean of sharing the wealth of the rich with those less fortunate? Or are they cynical about this approach?

#oc ask list #oc ask meme #autumn ask meme #oc meme #oc questions #ffxiv oc #ffxiv wol #OC asks #mimble sparklepudding #character asks #oc development #oc prompts #original character questions

[thatsbelievable]

#Three More Tips For Aspiring Authors #Duck Edition #tips #tricks #life hacks #helpful hints #advice #author #authors #writer #writers #ducks #duck

[rakiah]

Hey hey! (^-^)/ How are you doing? Love your work btw, it's always for pretty and fluffy! (* >ω<) I just had a couple of questions, and the first one was: What are your tips for an aspiring comic artist? f(^ー^; I wanna draw some of my favorite scenes from my fanfics, and I thought it might look kinda cool if it was kinda comic/webtoon style? (-。-;) Like what's your I guess take on that and how one might do that? And what about panel style, placement, and size? Is that all up to the artist, or do they have a rhyme and reason? Sorry if this was too long. You don't have to answer btw. I thought I'd give it a shot since y'know. (*´～｀*) Anyways have a great day and keep of the good work! d=(^o^)=b See ya! (^_^)v

Hi!~

Pretty busy but fine and thank you! (//∇//)

That’s a big question and I’ll try to do my best! Explaining something that technic not in your native language can be uncertain so, I’m sorry in advance 🙏

First of all: Observe. Comics, doujins, mangas,… Just observe to learn how others do.

Comic is a narrative art so, the most important things in comic is the reading way aka the panels (the angles you choose), the speech bubbles and how you put them in your comic page. It’s really the first thing you have to put in your storyboard!

Texts in the speech bubbles are also veeeery important. Texts that are badly formatted is painful to read… Avoid doing cesura as often as possible and do nice text forms.

And please, if you choose a manga layout, do not put japanese speech bubbles, they’re really not suitable for western texts.

If you want to to a webtoon instead of a regular comic/manga, you have to thing your layout quite differently. Webtoons are more like storyboard for animation. Like a series of forceful scenes. Plus, you have to deal with the required format. I’m not pretty used to do some, I’m just working with a lot of them (I do the texts for them). I can recommend you Sweet Home (cw: horror, hikikomori) to see how the author use the long layout of the webtoon to skillfully instill the jump scares in their episodes!

A quick “how I do” to finish my blah-blah! ٩( ᐛ )و

First, I write my plot like a play (quick context for each act, full dialogues with stage directions) then storyboard. Tiny storyboard, I sketch 15 pages on an A4 page. Better global view. I can’t give specific advices on how to do panels (cause it’s something that just pops in my mind during my storyboard stage 💦) just keep in mind to diversify your angles especially during a talk between 2 characters. Don’t do a shot reverse shot, it’s just boring.

Then pages. I usually rework my storyboard at the sketch stage ‘cause I have a new eye on it lol

Also, don’t forget to think about the facing pages for the narration. You can do some fun page layout!

Tadaa! ✨

Hope it’ll help you and have fun with your comic! (о´∀`о)

#answer #long post #I also hope I made it clear enough 💦 #quick comic advices!

[strangebiology]

Any good photogs looking for a paid gig? $150/hour to talk to an aspiring photojournalist.

I was selected to be part of this program that provides funding for artists in Wyoming, and they're hiring mentors. I would like to find a mentor for me who they can hire.

I am an experienced science journalist and applied initially as a writer/author, but the book I'm currently writing will probably be done soon, so I'm hoping to move on to another project. I'd like to publish another book, or maybe a series of photo essays, of photos of dead animals, with well-reported captions.

You:

Are a successful photographer (including financially)

Want to share advice on both the craft and business of photography

Willing to meet in person or online some times in February-June 2024 (exact hours TBD) (I live in SW Wyoming, so meeting in person is probably unlikely)

Have a strong stomach & can handle pictures of dead animals

Can vibe with my vision (meaning, maybe you do some photography that's on the wierder side, or involves animals/nature. I don't think a portrait photographer would help me much.) There are more details here. Shoot me a quick portfolio (or that of someone you recommend) and I'll pick someone and tell the directors of the program who I want. You could theoretically apply through that link if you're any type of successful artist and there is someone in the program who could benefit from your mentorship, but I think your chances are better if you have a connection. PS. I am still working on getting back to the science advisors I'm hiring! I'll try to email everyone by the end of next week!

Pictured: A concept page from the book project.

#photography #nature photography #dead animals #photojournalism

[michelleleewise]

I know your not taking requests rn, but I think this would be a really good idea and I don’t want to forget.

So the reader is an aspiring author/artist, whatever u want. They always go to Loki for ideas and help articulating ideas/anatomy. Again, whatever.

One day he comes into their room, and sees the reader crying. When he finally calms the reader down enough to speak, he learns that the reader had accidentally knocked over their water bottle, spilling it on (device), and lost all their work.

Whatever happens next is up to you!

Again, I know your not taking requests rn, but I think it’s just a really cute idea and I’m going to kick myself if I start writing smthn other than the 12+ docs I have open.

Hope u have a great day! I really dont mind I’d u don’t do this, I just wanted to put it out into the abyss. 😁

Also, I absolutely love your stories, they are my only source of dopamine rn! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Heeeeeeey!!!!!!! Sorry this took me a minute to get to!!!!!! I have also had too many to keep up with hahaha but......I'm doing this!!! Thank you so much for sending me this, i hope i did it justice and i did ok, and thank you for all the love and support!! Your aaaaaamazing!!!! Here we go....

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

Let Me Help

Pairing: Loki x female reader

Warnings: crying, a disastrous anniversary, a broken computer..... and all the fluff imaginable

Summary: you are an aspiring author working on your first book, when an accident derails your plans...

A/n- graphics by @harlequin-hangout

You grabbed your pen and paper, making sure to save your progress on your computer before scooting the chair back to hunt for your lover. You were writing your very first romance novel and you needed his perspective. When you began this endeavor he was nothing if not supportive, telling you how proud he was that you were doing what you loved, and offered his assistance with anything you needed, and to be honest you were more then grateful. Who better to ask advice from then a thousand year old God who has probably read every book in existence.

You walked into the living room seeing him settled in his chair, book in hand of course blowing on a cup of tea "Hello love, how is the writing coming?" He asked smiling up at you "Loki...when did you know you loved me?" You asked sitting on the ottoman in front of him "from the minute I laid eyes on you." He purred as you stared blankly at him making him laugh "ok, real answer." He said sitting up a bit "I would say it had to be our one year anniversary, do you remember?" He asked watching you "God Loki, that was the worst night ever." You laughed remembering that fateful evening.

You had just bought a brand new dress, emerald green silk that hugged every inch of you, pairing it with strappy black heels. You had had your hair and make up done professionally and made sure everything was perfect. Loki had come to pick you up, wearing your favorite suit that made you want to climb him like a tree, where you had set off for the evening, until one disaster after another hit in full force. First, as soon as you stepped outside a cab drove past a puddle spraying water all down your front making you gasp...loki had magicked you dry but it wasn't looking good. You made it to the restaurant finding they were out of half the menu when a waiter past by with a flaming you didn't know what and got to close to your hairspray coated hair igniting it, causing you to panic when another waiter dumped a bucket of water over your head.

You sat back at the table as Loki stared at you wide eyed "Darling, did you want to call it a night?" He asked standing up "no, no its ok. Its over let's....just enjoy dinner." You smiled seeing him slowly sit down. "Are you certain? We can go out another time." He smiled grabbing your hand. "It's our anniversary Loki, I'm fine." You smiled again. You were not going to let whatever was going on mess this up. But the evening wasn't done with you yet. You broke a heel walking to the bathroom making you trip and rip your dress, the sink in the bathroom broke spraying water in your face. Anything that could go wrong did as you sat back down at the table, the waiter bringing your food setting Loki's down in front of him, about to do the same with yours as he tripped sending it into your lap.

So there you were, dripping wet, makeup long gone, your hair a singed mess covered in food as you looked up seeing Loki looking at you with a softeness in his eyes "let me help." He said, waving his hand a green mist traveled down you, righting everything as you sighed. "Thank you Loki." You smiled at him. "Anything for you my love." He said grabbing your hand he pushed his plate between you "allow me." He said digging his fork into his food bringing it to your lips. "I cannot tell you how much I adore you love." He said smiling making your face heat up. The rest of the night going more smoothly.

"Well that can't be, I was an entire mess." You laughed looking at him. "No my dear, you were like a valkyrie facing battle. And no matter what happened, or what the evening threw at you you would not allow it to deter you, to ruin our special evening." He said leaning forward "I knew then that you my dear had the spirit of a warrior, with the heart and patience of a saint." He said cupping your cheek "and I couldn't picture the rest of my life without your light in it." He said leaning forward kissing you gently. "Lokiii...." you blushed as he pulled back smiling "is there anything else you would like to know my love?" He asked rubbing your cheek "no, I think I got it, thank you love." You said pecking his lips as you got up. "Anything for you love." He said sitting back picking his book back up.

You walked to the kitchen grabbing a bottle of water before heading back to the bedroom to continue your work, new ideas sprouting in your mind as you sat at the desk, popping the lid off your bottle you got to work.

Loki looked up at the clock seeing it had been several hours since he last saw you. Usually you would have come out to hunt for snacks or a drink but he hadn't seen you since that afternoon. He set his book down slowly standing up stretching as he made his way to the bedroom, expecting to find you asleep on your computer as he had several times before. He reached up grabbing the knob hearing a whimper come from inside "Darling.." he said walking in seeing your cheeks a deep red, your eyes puffy and red as tears spilled down your beautiful face, what had happened since he saw you last.

"Darling, what's the matter? What happened?" He asked as he saw the towel in your hand, reaching up trying to wipe the keyboard "i...l..loki....i...." your voice soft and strained, his heart aching hearing you sound so broken. He rushed over kneeling in front of you. "Take a deep breath love." He said rubbing your arm as another round of sobs broke his heart "i...I d..dropped m...my w...water..." you said through broken sobs pointing at the computer, loki looking over seeing the screen black as you covered your face with your hands "oh darling." He said pulling you forward wrapping his arms around you, rubbing your back as you cried into his shoulder "just breath love, it's ok" He said holding you tighter.

You pulled back looking at him, the site making his heart hurt as you wiped your face "a...all of my work...." you trailed off looking at the blank screen "it's.....gone loki....a...all gone." You said, a new wave of sobs wracked through you. He pulled you into his lap, rocking you back and forth as the sobs slowly quieted to soft snors. He looked down seeing you had cried yourself to sleep in his arms. He looked at the computer sighing as he slowly looped his arm under your legs, genlty standing as to not wake you He carefully walked to the bed laying you down pulling the blanket up around you hearing you sniffle. He pushed your hair back seeing the tear lines streaking down your cheeks making his heart clench in his chest, they had no business being on your beautiful face.

He waved his hand over you, the lines disappearing in a green flash as he leaned down kissing your cheek "I love you darling." He whispered against your skin hearing you groan as he stood, turning back to the computer. He stode towards it, taking the seat that you had been in staring at the black screen, he had no idea if he could fix it, he hadn't tried to fix these Midgardian devices before, turning when he heard you sniffle again seeing you had shifted but still sleeping. He turned back around, hovering his hands over the keyboard he closed his eyes, summoning his seidr as he concentrated on the task...to help you. As his hands glowed green he hoped he could do this for you, after everything you had done for him.

You woke to a pounding behind your eyes, groaning you rolled over to hug Loki but were met with cold sheets...and no Loki. You popped your head up as confusion swirled in your mind, looking over seeing his side hadn't been slept in. You dropped your head back to the pillow remembering what had happened, the water meeting the keyboard as the screen went black. The pit in your stomach returning remembering all your work was gone...in the flash of an eye everything you had put into it vanished. You rubbed your eyes trying to relieve some of the pain sitting up. You had two options, either give up, or start again, and with as much as you had written that was a discouraging thought.

You opened your eyes, confusion hitting you seeing Loki slumped over at the desk, his arms tucked under his head as he softly snored. "What the.." you started when you looked up seeing the computer screen on. You jumped up, stumbling over the blanket as you ran over, seeing your words written in black and white on the screen making you smile. It wasn't gone....you looked down at your sleeping God, gently brushing his hair back seeing his nose twitch. He looked so peaceful like this, so carefree. You carefully leaned down pressing a kiss to his cheek hearing him groan "no mother, I don't want to go to the tutor today." He said furrowing his eyebrows making you giggle. Apparently not wanting to go to school was a universal thing.

"Loki, my love wake up." You said genlty shaking him "no, I'm not doing get help." He groaned confusing you "umm Loki, your sleeping love, wake up." You said nudging him a bit harder when his eyes slowly opened "mm hello darling, what.." he trailed off slowly sitting up seeing he was at the desk "I'm sorry love I must have fallen asleep." He said rubbing his eyes "Loki, did you do this?" You asked pointing to the computer "oh, yes. You were so heartbroken I wanted to help, so I used my seidr and luckily I was able to get it working again, I started reading what you had and I must have dozed off. It is quite good love." He said smiling up at you.

"Oh Loki." You said jumping into his lap wrapping your arms around his neck hearing him laugh "Thank you so so so much! I can't..." you said "I was gonna have to start over, but you..." you trailed off pulling back to look at him "my savior. What can I do to repay you?" You asked smiling at him "Well, there are a few things I could think of." He said winking making you laugh. "I can't thank you enough Loki, this....you are utterly amazing" you said running your fingers through his hair. "To help you my love, I would do anything." He said cupping your cheek. "I love you Loki." You said looking deep into his eyes "and I love you my little warrior. Now, about that payment" He said making you laugh as he picked you up carrying you towards the bed "anything for you love." You said as he laid you down.

@vbecker10 @mochie85 @lokisgoodgirl @springdandelixn @kinky-faerie @xorpsbane @midnights-ramblings @simping-for-marvel @holdmytesseract @kkdvkyya @slpnbty2001 @lokixryss @vane28282 @violethaze @coldnique @aniar4wniak @nate-ate-hate @buttercupcookies-blog @brattymum96 @dukes2581 @your-taste-on-my-lips @mybabyh @blog-the-lilly @irishhappiness @sinsandguilt @filthyhiddles @lovebyloki @kikster606 @javagirl328 @misunderstoodself @highkeysimpingforloki @eleniblue @commanding-officer @athalialaufeyson @stupidthoughtsinwriting @lokiandbuckysdoll @loopsisloops @joyful-enchantress @jaidenhawke @silverfire475 @high-functioning-lokipath @kittiowolf210 @slytherclaw1227 @joyfullymassivewhispers @wolfsmom1 @libbybeaz @lokikissesmyforehead @goblingirlsarah @thomase1

#loki #loki fanfiction #loki fanfic #loki imagine #loki fluff #loki x reader #loki x you #loki x y/n #loki x female reader #loki x f!reader #loki oneshot #loki odinson imagine #loki odinson fanfic #loki odinson fanfiction #loki odinson fluff #loki odinson x you #loki odinson x reader #loki odinson x y/n #loki odinson #loki odinson x female reader #loki laufeyson imagine #loki laufeyson fanfiction #loki laufeyson fanfic #loki laufeyson fluff #loki laufeyson #loki laufeyson x reader #loki laufeyson x female reader #loki laufeyson x you #loki laufeyson x y/n #loki and reader

[drdemonprince]

hello dr price!

I have a question which I am a little embarrassed about so asking on anon, if you reply thank you very much!

I was just wondering if you have any advice/methods for becoming less afraid of/obedient to authority. Mentally and emotionally I don’t respect the powers that be but a lot of times i can’t make myself disobey because it feels so terrifying. For example: love the idea of stealing from my local grocery store but whenever I attempt it I am overcome with guilt and shame and fear that it makes the whole thing kind of unbearable. I know it’s not hurting anyone and I want to be able to practice rebelling in this way more bc i desire to become ungovernable. but right now feel shamefully Very Governable. please help I aspire to be a worse citizen!!

Oh Anon, I love this question and I will be writing an Autistic advice column on it!! I already have a few pieces queued up so expect it on Medium after about a month.

[kingdoms-and-empires]

Hey, wanted to say I am in love with your work. Really fantastic! May I ask: Do you have any pieces of advice for inspiring CoG writers or Interactive Fiction writers? Thank you and can't wait for more.

Im absolutely welcome these types of asks as they help remind me of what ive learned myself. Im going to try and say what i think every aspiring writer should hear to help them start out. Here we go: 1) Ensure you know what how much youre writing from the very beginning and plan accordingly. If it is a smaller story, do not be super ambitious, use it as a starter game to learn the basics of choicescript and learn the social media aspect of producing a title. If it is a large story, say over 800k words long, then you NEED to have an outline for each arc to help you know A to B for the story beats. Make outlines upon outlines and you will be doing yourself a favor. ESPECIALLY when coding. 2) THIS ISNT LIKE WRITING TRADITIONAL NOVELS. Know that Interactive Fiction is frustrating to write. You can write 3k words for a choice group, and players will only see 500 words or less worth of content for that choice group. Do not feel disheartened, for it is what it is. Just know youre doing a good job providing content and playable interaction with choices! Just be aware and mindful of not injecting bad or useless content in these choices! Have it matter in some way, either to represent/flesh out the world, characters, who the MC is, consequences, relationship changes, and foreshadowing.

3) Do not get too caught up with reader interaction. Your main job is to write write write. Create a hard limit for how many asks you answer, how much time you spend interacting with readers, and know what type of questions you should answer. Simply put: Be strategic! There may be a great question, but it could be too spoilery or it could take too much of your time to answer. 4) I learned this the hard way. Do not release information about the ROs until you actually reach the part in the story we meet them. If i can go back in time, i wouldnt have announced mine so soon haha. Youre gonna be eager to share your work and talk about it, but youll only be shooting yourself in the foot with people who only seek romance from your game! Also, dont overshare about em. You could retcon something and a reader may get upset with the change. Keep it simple! 5) Set low goals. Do not overpromise. You will feel guilty for failing and it may/will affect you mentally and your willingness to write. 6) You are not perfect, and that's okay!!! I struggle with this (and honestly everything ive listed here), but reminding yourself that its okay to not be perfect will help. You're human. It's hard to remember, and take it seriously, but you have to try. 7) Choice of Games (and more specifically Hosted Games) offer amateur writers a chance to share their work with others. Though games are becoming more and more expansive and huge, don't feel like you HAVE to do the same. A Mage Reborn is widely considered to be one of the best titles to have come out in recent years, and is listed at having 160k words! Small package (160k is by no means small in any capacity, dont get it twisted) big impact! 8) Know what type of game and title youre writing. If your project is focused on romance, dont spend more than necessary on worldbuilding, action, or thematically unrelated things. Stick to what the focus is, and your strength! 9) Ask for help. Seriously. You are combining coding and writing, so there's bound to be errors and things you wont understand. The CoG forums and Twine communities are always ready to help. Reach out to the communities or other authors for help. Just remember that some may be too busy to really help, so don't feel disheartened if one doesnt have the time. There are others, and you usually only need one to say yes to help figure out what youre struggling with or why you keep getting that error message. 10) Understand that you are giving a piece of your soul out there. It sounds corny as hell, but it's the simple truth. There is literal risk involved as a creator, no matter if you write, develop, draw, sing, perform, etc. There's obviously the risk of spending too much time on a hobby or dream for too little gain, but what im referring to is the all too common story of a creative putting their heart and soul into something important to them, and receiving no attention or being told it sucks. It will damage you, and perhaps even break you. Because again, you may have given it your all. So please take care of your mental health. It's okay to retreat and stop for a while. That doesnt make you a failure. Most of us creatives do this because we love the subject, and want to share what we can with others that love the industry, hobby, or topic theyre in. Remember that love, and remember what made you fall in love enough to put yourself out there. Remember you started for the art and craft.

#kingdomsandempires #interactive fiction #authors of tumblr

[richincolor]

We have a whopping FOURTEEN books on our radar for today! Check them out--you've got great odds you'll find something to add to your TBR list!

All This Twisted Glory (This Woven Kingdom #3) by Tahereh Mafi HarperCollins

As the long-lost heir to the Jinn throne, Alizeh has finally found her people—and she might’ve found her crown. Cyrus, the mercurial ruler of Tulan, has offered her his kingdom in a twisted exchange: one that would begin with their marriage and end with his murder. Cyrus’s dark reputation precedes him; all the world knows of his blood-soaked past. Killing him should be easy—and accepting his offer might be the only way to fulfill her destiny and save her people. But the more Alizeh learns of him, the more she questions whether the terrible stories about him are true. Ensnared by secrets, Cyrus has ached for Alizeh since she first appeared in his dreams many months ago. Now that he knows those visions were planted by the devil, he can hardly bear to look at her—much less endure her company. But despite their best efforts to despise each other, Alizeh and Cyrus are drawn together over and over with an all-consuming thirst that threatens to destroy them both. Meanwhile, Prince Kamran has arrived in Tulan, ready to exact revenge… Layered with exquisite tension and heart-stopping romance, All This Twisted Glory is the explosive third book in the captivating, bestselling This Woven Kingdom series.

ASAP by Axie Oh HarperTeen

Sori has worked her whole life to become a K-pop idol, until she realizes she doesn’t want a life forever in the spotlight. But that’s not actually up to Sori—she’s caught between her exacting mother’s entertainment company and her father’s presidential aspirations. And as the pressure to keep her flawless public image grows, the last person she should be thinking about is her ex-boyfriend. Nathaniel is off limits—she knows this. A member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world and forbidden from dating, he isn’t any more of an option now than he was two years ago. Still, she can’t forget that their whirlwind romance was the last time she remembers being really happy. Or that his family welcomed her into their home when she needed it most. . . . So when Nathaniel finds himself rocked by scandal, Sori offers him a hideaway with her. And back in close quarters, it’s hard to deny their old feelings. But when Sori gets an opportunity to break free from her parent’s expectations, she will have to decide: Is her future worth sacrificing for a second chance at love?

Bless the Blood: A Cancer Memoir by Walela Nehanda Kokila

A searing debut YA poetry and essay collection about a Black cancer patient who faces medical racism after being diagnosed with leukemia in their early twenties, for fans of Audre Lorde's The Cancer Journals and Laurie Halse Anderson's Shout . When Walela is diagnosed at twenty-three with advanced stage blood cancer, they're suddenly thrust into the unsympathetic world of tubes and pills, doctors who don’t use their correct pronouns, and hordes of "well-meaning" but patronizing people offering unsolicited advice as they navigate rocky personal relationships and share their story online. But this experience also deepens their relationship to their ancestors, providing added support from another realm. Walela's diagnosis becomes a catalyst for their self-realization. As they fill out forms in the insurance office in downtown Los Angeles or travel to therapy in wealthier neighborhoods, they begin to understand that cancer is where all forms of their oppression Disabled. Fat. Black. Queer. Nonbinary. In Bless the A Cancer Memoir, the author details a galvanizing account of their survival despite the U.S. medical system, and of the struggle to face death unafraid.

Bright Red Fruit by Safia Elhillo Make Me a World

An unflinching, honest novel in verse about a teenager's journey into the slam poetry scene and the dangerous new relationship that could threaten all her dreams. From the award-winning poet and author of HOME IS NOT A COUNTRY. Bad girl. No matter how hard Samira tries, she can’t shake her reputation. She’s never gotten the benefit of the doubt—not from her mother or the aunties who watch her like a hawk. Samira is determined to have a perfect summer filled with fun parties, exploring DC, and growing as a poet—until a scandalous rumor has her grounded and unable to leave her house. When Samira turns to a poetry forum for solace, she catches the eye of an older, charismatic poet named Horus. For the first time, Samira feels wanted. But soon she’s keeping a bigger secret than ever before—one that that could prove her reputation and jeopardize her place in her community. In this gripping coming-of-age novel from the critically acclaimed author Safia Elhillo, a young woman searches to find the balance between honoring her family, her artistry, and her authentic self.

Daniel, Deconstructed by James Ramos Inkyard Press

A nerdy high schooler learns to embrace his main-character energy in this witty and heart-healing ode to movie tropes, meet-cutes, and LGBTQ+ love. Photographer and film buff Daniel Sanchez learned a long time ago that the only way to get by in an allistic world is to mask his autism and follow the script. Which means he knows that boisterous, buff, and beautiful soccer superstars like his best friend, Mona Sinclair, shouldn’t be wasting time hanging out with introverts who prefer being behind the camera. So when Daniel meets a new classmate, Gabe Mendes, who is tall, mysterious, nonbinary, and—somehow—as cool as Mona, Daniel knows exactly how this is going to play out. Mona and Gabe will meet cute, win their nominations for Homecoming Court, and ride off into the sunset together. Daniel just needs to do a little behind-the-scenes directing. But matchmaking means stepping into the mystifying and illogical world of love, dating, and relationships, where nothing is as it seems and no one knows their lines. And when Daniel finds himself playing a starring role in this romance, he’ll question everything he thought he knew about himself and his place in the world.

The Girl, the Ring, & the Baseball Bat by Camille Gomera-Tavarez Levine Querido

Rosie: Capricorn. Does great in class. Wants nothing more than to get into the prestigious Innovation Technical Institute and kiss this awful school goodbye. Her talisman: a magical jacket from her mother’s past that gets people to do whatever she says. Caro: Leo. Rosie’s older sister. Always been closer to their estranged father – and always butted heads more with their strict mother. A trip to Dominican Republic for her father’s wedding leads her deep into family history that clears up any illusions about her parents she’s ever had. Her talisman: a baseball bat that fixes whatever it breaks. Zeke: Certified Triple Pisces. Up in cold-ass Jersey City living with his aunt after his grandmother dies and his father moves to London to take care of his mother. He crushes on EVERYone – he knows he’ll find happiness in love, and maybe a way out of this depression. His talisman: a manifestation stone that will make anyone fall in love with him. Rosie, Caro, and Zeke – and their talismans – find themselves intertwined in a magical, hilarious, and whip-smart Outsiders for the modern day, written by Camille Gomera-Tavarez, a 2022 Publishers Weekly Flying Start.

How the Boogeyman Became a Poet by Tony Keith Katherine Tegen Books

Poet, writer, and hip-hop educator Tony Keith Jr. makes his debut with a powerful YA memoir in verse, tracing his journey from being a closeted gay Black teen battling poverty, racism, and homophobia to becoming an openly gay first-generation college student who finds freedom in poetry. Perfect for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, George M. Johnson, and Jacqueline Woodson. Tony dreams about life after high school, where his poetic voice can find freedom on the stage and page. But the Boogeyman has been following Tony since he was six years old. First, the Boogeyman was after his Blackness, but Tony has learned It knows more than Tony wants to be the first in his family to attend college, but there’s no path to follow. He also has feelings for boys, desires that don’t align with the script he thinks is set for him and his girlfriend, Blu. Despite a supportive network of family and friends, Tony doesn’t breathe a word to anyone about his feelings. As he grapples with his sexuality and moves from high school to college, he struggles with loneliness while finding solace in gay chat rooms and writing poetry. But how do you find your poetic voice when you are hiding the most important parts of yourself? And how do you escape the Boogeyman when it's lurking inside you?

I Hope This Doesn't Find You by Ann Liang Scholastic Press

Sadie Wen is perfect on paper: school captain, valedictorian, and a "pleasure to have in class." It’s not easy, but she has a trick to keep her model-student smile plastered on her face at all times: she channels all her frustrations into her email drafts. She'd never send them of course -- she'd rather die than hurt anyone's feelings -- but it's a relief to let loose on her power-hungry English teacher or a freeloading classmate taking credit for Sadie's work. All her most vehemently worded emails are directed at her infuriating cocaptain, Julius Gong, whose arrogance and competitive streak have irked Sadie since they were kids. "You're attention starved and self-obsessed and unbearably vain . . . I really hope your comb breaks and you run out of whatever expensive hair products you've been using to make your hair appear deceptively soft..." Sadie doesn't have to hold back in her emails, because nobody will ever read them... that is, until they're accidentally sent out. Overnight, Sadie’s carefully crafted, conflict-free life is turned upside down. It's her worst nightmare -- now everyone at school knows what she really thinks of them, and they're not afraid to tell her what they really think of her either. But amidst the chaos, there's one person growing to appreciate the "real" Sadie -- Julius, the only boy she's sworn to hate...

Infinity Alchemist (Infinity Alchemist #1) by Kacen Callendar Tor Teen

For Ash Woods, practicing alchemy is a crime. Only an elite few are legally permitted to study the science of magic―so when Ash is rejected by the Lancaster Mage’s College, he takes a job as the school’s groundskeeper instead, forced to learn alchemy in secret. When he’s discovered by the condescending and brilliant apprentice Ramsay Thorne, Ash is sure he's about to be arrested―but instead of calling the reds, Ramsay surprises Ash by making him an offer: Ramsay will keep Ash's secret if he helps her find the legendary Book of Source, a sacred text that gives its reader extraordinary power. As Ash and Ramsay work together and their feelings for each other grow, Ash discovers their mission is more dangerous than he imagined, pitting them against influential and powerful alchemists―Ash’s estranged father included. Ash’s journey takes him through the cities and wilds across New Anglia, forcing him to discover his own definition of true power and how far he and other alchemists will go to seize it.

No Time Like Now by Naz Kutub Bloomsbury

It's been one year since Hazeem's father passed away unexpectedly, and one year since Hazeem got his special ability: He can grant any living thing extra time. Since then, he's been randomly granting people more years to live: his old friend Holly, his study buddy Yamany, his crush Jack. . . . The only problem is, none of them wanted to spend any of that time with Hazeem. Now, Hazeem spends most of his days with his grandmother. When she experiences a heart attack, Hazeem is quick to use his power to save her--until Time themself appears and tells Hazeem he has accrued a time debt, having given away more life than he has left to live and putting the entire timeline in serious danger of collapse. In order to save the timeline and himself, Hazeem must take back some of the life he has granted other people. Suddenly, Hazeem is on a journey through and against time, but as he confronts the events of the past, he must confront the mistakes he made along the way. Hazeem will come to realize that when it comes to time, quality is more important to quantity--but is it too late to reclaim the life he's given away so he can really start living? No Time Like Now is a timely twist on A Christmas Carol that takes readers on a thought-provoking adventure, asking what matters most in life.

Out of Body by Nia Davenport Balzer + Bray

A high-stakes, propulsive YA thriller with a body-swap twist thoughtfully exploring themes of friendship and identity, perfect for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson. Seventeen-year-old Megan Allen has been jumping from friend group to friend group in her high school, trying on identities like outfits. Nothing ever seems to fit—until she meets LC, the adventurous, charismatic girl who appears at her favorite coffee shop one day like magic. Finally, Megan feels like she’s becoming the person she’s meant to be: someone like LC. On the night of their friendiversary, what was supposed to be a bonding experience ends in a waking nightmare. Suddenly, Megan is no longer herself. Too late, she realizes that LC has secrets—dangerous ones. Betrayed by her best friend, thrust into another girl’s life, and targeted by LC’s enemies, she must claim what makes Megan Megan to get her life back . . . or die trying.

Pangu's Shadow by Karen Bao Carolrhoda Lab

There are no second chances in the Pangu Star System. Ver and Aryl, apprentices at the most prestigious biology lab among the system’s moons, know this better than anyone. They’ve left behind difficult pasts and pinned their hopes for the future on Cal, their brilliant but difficult boss. But one night while working late in the lab, they find Cal sprawled on the floor, dead. Murdered. And they immediately become the prime suspects. Their motives seem obvious. Ver, who left her home moon to study the life-threatening disease wracking her body, had a hopeless attachment to Cal that could’ve become twisted by jealousy. Aryl, on the other hand, clashed with workaholic Cal because she valued more in her life besides research. To clear their names, Ver and Aryl put aside their mutual suspicion and team up to investigate Cal’s death. As they search for the real murderer, they uncover secrets that have shaped all of Pangu’s moons… and must decide what kind of future they really want.

Relit: 16 Latinx Remixes of Classic Stories edited by Sandra Proudman Inkyard Press

These sixteen stories by award-winning and bestselling YA authors center a Latinx point of view in an empowering anthology that reimagines classics through fantasy, science fiction, and with a dash of magic, for fans of A PHOENIX FIRST MUST BURN and RECLAIM THE STARS In classic stories remixed, Latinx characters take center stage Pride and Prejudice is launched into outer space, Frankenstein is plunged into the depths of the ocean, and The Great Gatsby floats to an island off the coast of Costa Rica. A shape-shifter gives up her life to save the boy she loves from an evil bruja. La Ciguapa covets a little mermaid’s heart of gold. Two star-crossed teens fall in love while the planet burns around them. Whether characters fall in love, battle foes, or grow through grief, each story will empower readers to see themselves as the heroes of the stories that make our world.

You're Breaking my Heart by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich Levine Querido

Harriet Adu knows that her brother's death is her fault. I mean, it's not actually her fault, but it still kinda is, isn't it? She would do anything to live in a world where she could take back what she said that morning. Then a strange girl shows up at Harriet's high school – a girl who loves the same weird books Harriet does, who doesn't vibe with anyone at school the same way Harriet does – and that different world suddenly seems possible. The girl speaks of a place underneath the subways of New York, where people like them can go and find a home. A place away from the world of high school, grief, cool people, and depression. A place where one may be able to bend the lines of reality and get a second chance at being a better person. Will Harriet open the door? With You're Breaking My Heart , award-winning author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich offers a remarkable speculative novel that will hit home for anyone who yearns for that one chance to do things over.

#new releases #all this twisted glory #asap #bless the blood #bright red fruit #daniel deconstructed #the girl the ring and the baseball bat #how the boogeyman became a poet #i hope this doesn't find you #infinity alchemist #no time like now #out of body #pangu's shadow #relit #you're breaking my heart

[sarlusmonoele]

Aspiring Writer Introduction

Hi! I'm an aspiring writer/author and have been lurking around writblr for a while. I've just recently set this blog up and hoping to get more involved with the writing community. I have always had interest in creative writing but never actually did much - I'm here to change that.

About me:

☽ You can call me Sarlus ☽ In my early 20s ☽ Used to be an avid reader, trying to get that back ☽ I haven't written very much - I'm here to mostly learn and hone my craft ☽ Mostly interested in contemporary, YA and fantasy genres ☽ ADHD + Autism and currently in regression - trying to rekindle passion and actually develop skills this time ☽ Actively searching for my muse (she got lost and has been reported missing)

About the blog:

☽ I've never actively used tumblr before, so I'm not sure what I'll be posting ☽ ^ Not my WIPs for sure, because they don't exist (I've only gone as far as having some basic ideas) ☽ I'll mostly be reblogging things that inspire me ☽ Is mainly a tool for me to learn how to write from real writers

I'm interested in following blogs that post about their own writing journey and wips, as well as tips and advice blogs. Huge plus if you write fantasy or YA!

#writeblr #writing community #writeblr intro #writers of tumblr #writing #writers on tumblr #intro post

[j0kers-light]

His Lighthouse: Let Me In (LedgerJoker x f!reader)

Let Me In

series summary:  

Y/n is an aspiring writer living in Gotham City and struggling to find her next muse. Her recent novel is getting all the buzz, earning her far more attention than she signed up for. But when a chance encounter results in her nursing The Joker back to health, will she find the time to write another best seller or will her own story become front page of the Gotham Gazette?

chapter summary:

As the aftermath of the dinner party unfolds, what other buried secrets will be revealed? Can Y/n face all of this on her own or will she buckle under pressure?

author’s note:

This chapter was a thorn in my side to write! I struggled, started over multiple times, and almost gave up, so many times it was ridiculous! I have like four different key points I wanted to highlight (cram into one chapter) but the flow wasn't right so it made writing hard for me. BUT NEVERTHELESS SHE PERSISITED and here we are!

More background on Y/n as things gradually get a bit more darker. Enjoy!

taglist:

@blackreaderatrisk @twinkledinkle @clemdango04 @l3ejm @tears-of-amber @what-an-angel @darthjokerisyourfather @thatsnoteii @dollster  @cheetahspy @kaidennnnn @urdariingdoll @motivation-idontknowher @ins0mniac-whack

Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist!  

Last Chapter | Next Chapter

You knew you were dreaming.

For starters, everything around you had a soft hazy glow to it and the air was too calm. Flower petals danced in the breeze as you looked around an empty field, undoubtedly not in Gotham City anymore.

Wherever this place was, it was far too serene and lax given the current drama in your life. As much as you wanted to stay here amidst the lush scenery and hide forever, there was a soft humming afar off that piqued your attention. It wasn't annoying per se, but concerning since it was the only sound in the dreamscape that you could hear.

You rose to your feet, brushing flower petals off of your lap, to find the source of the sound.

Time had no play here yet you walked for quite some time until you stumbled upon a boy crouched down near a riverbank.

He had his back turned to you but you could tell he was playing in the water. It too shimmered in the hazy filter here and it had a pinkish red tint to it.

The boy's hair was a mess of curls yet it had a mind of its own whenever the wind got a hold of it. He couldn't be more than six however you felt an air of maturity shrouding the boy.

Confirmed: you were definitely dreaming.

"Hey... um.." You began until the boy stopped humming. Only then you realized just how quiet it was.

Not even the stream made a sound.

Something was off about all of this. You stepped closer to ask him about the area but froze at the sight.

The water would have been clear if the boy wasn't washing his arms off. Crimson blood clung to him like a second skin and tainted the water supply as he tried to wash off.

He stopped scrubbing and looked up at you with empty eyes; the same color as yours.

"What... what have you done?" You whispered.

You backed away when he stood to his feet and stared at you expressionless. Your palm was wet with blood after touching his shoulder and you groaned in disgust.

No matter how much you tried wiping it off, it remained. Much to your horror, the color spread to your other hand and dripped off your fingers like spilled paint.

You were short of screaming when he spoke up. His voice sounded so familiar..

"She knows and now she has to die."

You gasped as you jackknifed yourself awake.

Whose blood was on your hands? The message couldn't be more clearer.

"Easy now, sweetheart. There you go, take even breaths in and out." Your mother's voice was your lifeline and you followed her medical advice to the T.

The room was spinning but you blinked it all away to take in your surroundings. You were still in your apartment. Your mother was sitting on the floor with you and you saw Morgana hovering over her with a glass of water and a frozen ice pack.

Your mother took the glass from the florist with a smile before facing you. "Would you like some water, Y/n? You're probably dehydrated after passing out."

You shook your head and focused on more pressing matters. "W-where's Florence..."

You noticed Barbara's wheelchair on your left and lifted your head when she answered your question. "Don't worry about her right now. Your health is more important."

If only she knew that your health meant diddly squat right now in light of the current situation. 

Your dad spoke to someone behind you as he propped your feet up in his lap. "Hey Bruce, sit her up some more so she can take a sip."

Come again? Who was gonna do what?

Sure enough, you felt a mass of muscle prop you up so your mother could tip the glass of water up to your lips. At least that was the goal.

You shifted your head and locked eyes with Bruce's concerned blues staring at you. Your mind proceeded to flip several tables.

You screamed and wiggled out of Bruce's hold and in the process, you managed to spill the pre-offered water all over yourself. It was cold on your skin and it shocked you fully awake. You landed on your bum while everyone reacted to your theatrics.

"Y/n! What're you doing?!" Your mother shouted. "Grayson, baby please grab a towel. Y/n is over here making a mess."

None of that mattered right now. You stared at Bruce who looked hurt at you for scrambling out of his arms before he schooled his features into one of concern. "Are you alright Y/n?"

No. No, you were not!

Florence, who was known for her love of gossip, knew your deepest darkest secret. She could very well be on her way to the GCPD precinct right now to sing like a canary. If you were in her shoes, that's exactly what you would do. You would scream it from the rooftops.

Y/n is sleeping with The Joker. He's in her apartment.

The reward for any information regarding Joker's recapture accumulated more funds the longer he remained at large. 

Even without a monetary reward, Florence would still snitch.

Doing the right thing and turning you in while getting attention for being the whistleblower was worth severing the long friendship Florence had with you. There was no questioning it, attention fueled a person like Flo.

You had to find her before she ruined everything.

The downside; you had absolutely no idea where she was and everyone was so worried about you they wouldn't let you leave to start searching.

Screw having company over. Forget about keeping up appearances. Your parents' first visit to your place would just have to be ruined. You had to find Florence. Now.

"I have to find Florence." You groaned, trying (more like failing) to get to your feet. Multiple hands shot out to catch you when you slipped in the water you spilt.

"I found some towels. Oh for the love of... Y/n must you be such a drama queen?" Dick sighed after walking in and seeing everyone doting over you.

You caught wind of his annoyed demeanor and flipped out even further.

"Drama queen? I'll show you a drama queen! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT! I begged you to stop but did you listen? No! You kept stirring the pot and escalated the situation into a literal s__t show!"

Everyone gasped hearing you of all people curse. It was a testament to just how angry you were. Dick just snorted and rolled his eyes.

"How is this any of my fault? Your boy Neo started all of this with his snarky comment over dinner and you didn't help things by not coming clean about Prince Charming. You're only lashing out because you've been exposed. Maybe there is some truth in all of this for you to be so defensive. I bet–"

"That's enough Dick." Bruce's commanding voice shouted.

Across the room Morgana fanned herself, resting her hip on Barbara's wheelchair.

"Oo. Yes daddy." Barbara elbowed her in the side for the inappropriate comment but they both shared a brief chuckle. It did sound kinda hot.

Your dad just shook his head. You had the weirdest friends.

"Bruce is right. Don't hound Y/n so much. When she's ready to talk, she will. I raised her well enough to do that much."

You looked away, red in the face. You hated your mother's stern gaze.

She sighed and ran a hand through her tresses. "Well.. I'd say dinner is over. Does anyone have room for dessert?"

Everyone heard the message behind her words. This conversation is over. Time to move on.

Barbara cleared her throat to gain the room's attention. "Right.. I baked. Eton mess, assorted dessert bars, a pie, Y/n's favorite cake. Ya know.. options." She listed off the baked goods while wheeling herself into the kitchen.

Your father wanted to get away from the drama filled air and followed her. Barbara had hyped up her baking all day and he was excited to slip himself into a sugar high before the day's end.

"I could go for a slice of cake myself." Morgana side eyed you and Dick as she too followed your mother, who was also bound for the kitchen. Both girls wanted to know what a Eton mess was.

That left you, Dick, and Bruce awkwardly in the dining room area.

You and Dick were having a staring contest and surprise surprise, Bruce decided to come to your aid instead of when you actually needed him to. He proudly stood nearby as if you needed protection from Dick.

You would've appreciated his assistance more when Florence had her claws out earlier, but that time had passed.

This conversation was nowhere near done if you had any say about it.

You rounded on Dick with a harsh glare. "You have NO idea what you've done."

Dick just rolled his baby blues again. "Oh my gosh, you're right! I probably altered the time continuum and permanently destroyed a friendship. C'mon Y/n. We both know Flo. She'll be pissed for a day or two and show up at your place wanting to go on a 'please forgive me and let's go shopping' trip. You'll see."

In any other case, yes that is exactly what would happen. But you knew Florence the longest.

She was a very opinionated person and had a temper that could rival Greek gods. This time you weren't fighting about some trivial matter. This couldn't be forgiven with a designer handbag or fancy clothes. Dick did in fact disrupt the future and destroy a friendship. Nothing would be the same after this. He didn't know the gravity of the situation. No one did. Then you remembered your weird dream.

That little boy by the bank of the river covered in blood. Your own hands dripping red.

"She knows and now she has to die."

Bruce saw your eyes tearing up and decided to step in.

"Y/n, no matter the outcome, there is no need to worry yourself sick. Please." He tried reaching out to you but you avoided his touch. Again.

"I need to be alone." You choked out. Dick knew what that meant and stopped his former guardian from chasing after you when you spun on your heel towards your room.

"Leave her be, old man."

Everyone in the kitchen was all smiles and sugar but froze when they saw you speed walk through the archway that separated the main apartment area from the private rooms.

"Where is she going?" Your dad mumbled in between a bite of confectionery.

Barbara rolled her eyes. "Her sanctuary." A glance at the clock dragged a sigh from her lips. "She won't come out for the rest of the night either."

At that time Dick and Bruce walked into the kitchen, the former looking rather guilty. "What did you say to her, you idiot?"

He grabbed the entire pie tin and a fork before digging in. No one stopped him. It was his personal pie anyway. Bruce washed his hands before accepting a slice of cake from your mother.

Your folks were so hospitable. He understood where you got your personality and manners from now.

"Nothing she doesn't already know. Being a sibling is hard work." Dick chewed on a slice of pie as Morgana blinked owlishly at him. "She's not even your sister." 

"How long has she been dissociating?" Your parents asked at the same time. Even Bruce was curious, not quite understanding the elephant in the room.

Why did you need a sanctuary?

Morgana and Barb shared a look. The redhead decided to spill the beans.

"Um.. Y/n has always been like that. It's an unspoken rule that her room is off limits. No one's been in there since she renovated the place. Whenever she's upset, she locks herself inside and doesn't come out for hours."

Your mother sighed. This was exactly what she feared.

"I thought she stopped this behavior in middle school. It's a nasty coping mechanism she uses to bottle up her frustrations. I referred her to a mental health colleague but Y/n didn't even bother going to the initial evaluation. What if she's doing.. that.. again?"

Your mother wrung her lip, a habit everyone noticed you inherited from her.

Bruce was concerned with the mysterious terminology being tossed around and had to ask. "What if she's doing what exactly?"

He had his suspicions with his experience as Batman but could you really be suffering right in front of his eyes? Was he really that dense to not notice the signs?

Your dad just shook his head. "I get everyone here is close to my Y/n, but if you don't know then it's none of your business. Everyone has their demons. I... I just thought Y/n had overcome hers."

A knowing silence fell over the room as everyone let the warning settle in.

A year was not enough time to truly know a person and today was a startling reminder. Sure they were considered your closest friends but they didn't know you at all.

"Well.. we shouldn't let these delicious desserts Barbara baked go to waste! I'm going to bring Y/n a plate. Can you pass me that knife Morgana?" Your mother said.

The girls fussed around the kitchen to fix you a plate stacked high with all of your favorites while the men looked on in silence.

Bruce caught Dick's inconspicuous look over your father's shoulder. They both had to do some digging later into your medical file. Barbara caught wind to their silent conversation and put an end to it by slamming the fridge harder than necessary.

'Stay out of her business.' It stressed.

If Barbara was warning them not to meddle, that meant there was something that was a cause for concern. The bright, cheerful Y/n they knew and loved was hiding something from them.

Dick felt awful for teasing you now.

You sped straight to your phone charging on the nightstand.

This was an emergency and you had to call Joker about it. He could get in touch with Neo and start damage control on the whole Florence situation. Also you needed to ensure none of them would hurt your friend. That odd dream of yours was rather unnerving to say the least. No one had to die here...

It was just a bad dream you told yourself. Nothing else would come of it.

You mashed the dial button but a robotic voice shut your hopes down real quick.

"The number you have dialed is no longer in service. Please check the number or try your call again later."

"What?" You checked it three times for good measure, it was right! You referred to the text Joker sent you earlier. The number matched exactly. Just how fast did he dispose of his burner phones?

The one time you were having a meltdown and wanted a shoulder to lean on, the annoying clown was nowhere to be found!

What you would do to have Joker holding you close and shushing you in that irritated yet oddly reassuring tone of his.

You could picture his green eyes rolling now as he snatched you up into the comfort of his arms- as if having emotions were an inconvenience he didn't have the time to console. But he did. Joker had all the time in the world when it pertained to his Light.

You had no doubt that Joker would drop everything to come to your aid if only he would just answer the phone!

After ten failed attempts trying to reach Joker via text message or phone call, you tossed your phone on the bed and started pacing.

Your head was a mixture of static and bad thoughts that you wished to erase.

And whenever you couldn't fully escape, you turned to other alternative outlets. You eyed the corner where that box was stored. Were you that desperate to disconnect?

What would Joker say if knew what his precious bunny was considering doing? Good thing he wasn't here.

You were slowly creeping over to the closet when you heard your bedroom door open. You spun around like a dreidel and a book from your bookshelf flew through the air as you tossed it at the intruder.

"GET OUT!"

Thankfully your mother moved out of the way in time. She stared at the copy of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain flop to the floor in disbelief.

"And what has Huck done to deserve such ctreatment?"

She picked up the novel and walked further into your room. "Have I not taught you to treat books like the world's greatest treasures?" You grumbled and grabbed the book from her to return it to its rightful place.

"What are you doing in here? Get. Out."

She ignored you to sit a plate full of sugar down on your nightstand. "Your friend Babara fixed dessert and I gotta say, the girl can bake. I brought you a bit of everything since I didn't know–"

"Are you deaf? I said, "Get out Mama!" You yelled again.

"Oh I heard what you said but since I'm your mother, I decided not to listen. No child of mine gone raise her voice at me like she crazy. I'll find a belt and beat ya like ya stole somethin, don't play with me Y/n. Now, I came in here to talk to you. After your assault..."

She heard your sharp inhale and sighed before walking over to hold onto your shaking hands. This was a touchy topic, but she had to press forward.

She steered you to sit down on the ottoman at the foot of your massive bed.

"I didn't believe you would be so open to having partners after what happened. It drastically changed your way of thinking. I just can't bring myself to believe Flo's accusations. I've heard her side of things, now I wanna hear yours."

She smoothed your hair down and scanned you over with that motherly eye of hers. You were hesitant to open up and that was perfectly understandable.

It had been an entire year since the two of you spoke so candidly yet the mother-daughter bond never waned.

"It doesn't matter how old you are, you can always talk to me about anything. I'm always in your corner, Y/n. So tell me. What's bogging up that head of yours?"

She could read you like a book. Mom had that weird sense of knowing when something was bothering you; and it wasn't just her motherly instincts at play.

Maybe it was her expertise as a medical provider. Either way, one look into her warm e/c eyes and the dam broke.

"Mama.. I'm so down bad for this man it should be illegal." You laughed through the tears. She snorted at your choice of words but let you continue.

"His eyes alone have me in a chokehold! Oh my God when he looks at me, it's like my entire body seizes up and.. and the way he dotes on me while being wholly unaware that he's doing it, it's so endearing. He's rough around the edges, but that's what I like about him. He's a fixer upper I never want to complete. I never want him to change if that's what it takes for him to keep loving me."

You sniffed and smiled softly. It felt nice to finally talk about Joker to someone without facing judgement.

"I haven't told him I love him yet, but I can see it in his eyes. I can feel it in the way he holds me close. He loves me too. Ugh he's so possessive, like.. he leaves bruises and stuff, but he would never hurt me like that, Ma!" You said once you saw her eyebrow arch.

Your parents raised you to understand what a healthy relationship was with their marriage being a prime example.

They did not tolerate any abusive behavior whether it be mental, physical, or emotional.

You omitted the fact that Joker threatened you with a knife and cut your hands with another, or that he hurt you emotionally numerous times with his harsh words.

Joker did a lot of things he regretted but he made up for those mistakes countless times over. Your mother eyed your flustered face and knew that was the case.

So you adopted some of her romantic quirks after all..

The girls in the family always had a thing for bad boys. Good to know that it wasn't just a phase in high school for you.

"Sounds like you're in love, sweetheart. That doesn't explain why he's a secret though." Your mother chided.

Yeah... secrets. You winced and looked away.

The plate she brought in stole your attention and you stabbed a forkful of your favorite cake before shoving it in your mouth. She let you chew in silence, knowing you were thinking things over.

She questioned who the lucky man in your life was.

You had insanely high standards when it came to partners so he had to be exceptional, so why the shroud of secrecy around him?

"R-Remember when you and dad said I was more unique than the stars and it would take a man beyond my wildest dreams to handle me?"

You looked up into your mother's loving eyes. How could you tell her that you were seeing Gotham City's most infamous criminal?

Could you confirm her fears and confess that you were in constant danger? She would worry herself into a heart attack if she knew about the bounty Two Face had on your head or the secrets Joker was hiding from you over the weekend.

The fact you were harboring and having sexual relations with a known fugitive alone would make her faint.

She was used to your exes ranging from smokers to your stereotypical Emo/goths, not a clinically diagnosed psychopath on America's most wanted list.

That was a new level she hadn't crossed and she dated plenty of crazy cats back in the day. And you wondered why she forbade you from moving into the big city for years. You attracted danger like a magnet!

"Of course I remember sweetheart. I stand by what I said. You are a remarkable girl with a gifted mind, Y/n! I just worry that this man you've fallen for is stunting your growth. Just because he's beyond your wildest dreams, doesn't mean he's the ideal partner. I want you to be happy.. but don't let this new love blind you from reality. Is he what's best for you in the long run or does he only make you happy right now?"

You stopped eating your cake. As if you didn't consider that already. Your heart knew the right answer...

This entire arrangement between you and Joker was temporary. What started out as two weeks, blew way out of proportion until a current five month timer was set.

But your heart wanted it to last longer than that. It was pushing for a long term solution with Joker even if the very notion was impossible.

You tried pretending that five months would be enough time to love Joker and you would magically have him out of your system when he eventually left. That's not how emotions worked.

You wouldn't be satisfied with just five months.

When Joker did ultimately leave, the constant reminders of him flashing on your tv screen would tear you apart. Hearing random people on the street whisper about him would make you nostalgic. Just seeing the color green was a trigger for you to think about J.

You could never look at the hue the same way again.

You were in too deep to part from Joker. And you doubted he would let you go now that he claimed you as his Light. You were screwed no matter the outcome.

"Did you know that your father and I broke up for four years before we eventually got together?" Your mother said out the blue.

The shocking information broke you out of your deep thought and you almost dropped your fork in disbelief.

"Whahhh?"

Your mom plopped a bar of assorted chocolate from your plate into her mouth.

"Mhmm! I knew your father wasn't father material from the jump. He was dealing heavy but I was young and naïve, far too attracted to his bad boy vibe to care. I was completing my residency at the hospital when he was rushed in. As I treated him for the millionth time, I had a moment of realization. He's not the one."

You were on the edge of your seat listening to your mother talk about her past. Her heavy sigh cut through the air.

"Broke things off right there in the trauma bay and caused quite the scene doing it. Real messy. I realized I didn't need his unpredictability in my life. No surprise he left AMA, (Against medical advice) absolutely furious that I broke up with him." She smiled fondly while fiddling with a tiny piece of chocolate. 

It melted in between her thumb and index finger.

"We didn't see each other for years and I was a doctor by the time we crossed paths again. His boys dropped him off at the unit I covered at the time. I was working a double shift, in three day old scrubs– hair a mess, and he still thought I was the most beautiful jawn he'd ever seen. And it wasn't the meds I gave him that were talkin."

"Even though I knew he wasn't worth the hassle, I gave your father a chance. We got married against my parents wishes. They hated him and hated me for marrying a known drug dealer as a MD. They thought I was throwing my future away for a street thug, and at first, they were right. Your father let me down time and time again until he finally changed his life around."

You blinked in shock. So that's why mom didn't speak with her parents.. Talk about awkward.

You didn't notice that Mom had grabbed your hands until you felt her rub chocolate stained circles into your matching skin tone. She squeezed your hands with a sad smile.

"What I'm saying is, Y/n... I don't want you to second guess yourself the same way I did when it's too late."

You broke away from her affectionate hold.

"But Mama.. it all worked out in the end right? I mean, you and dad love each other so much! You have me! The two of you are like, hashtag couple goals. Can you not say it was all worth it in the end?"

It was sending you for a loop to hear your parent's relationship wasn't as ideal as they presented it to be.

What else about your childhood was a lie?

"Hmmm. I should've married that hot neurologist.." Your mother hummed to herself.

"Ma!" She laughed at your horrified groan.

"I'm kidding, dear. He was German with a thick af accent. What was I finna do with that? Couldn't understand a single word he said but that body of his.. I understood that. Too well.."

She sighed, reminiscing to herself much to your horror. You pretended to gag and she swatted at your arm. 

"Don't judge your mother and her wishful thinking! Back to you. Is your man truly worth all this drama?"

You bit your lip, looking away. Of course J was worth the hullabaloo. He made you happy and feel appreciated!

He encouraged your goals and never made fun of you for being a romance writer– if anything, he was your biggest fan and demanded that you continue writing. No other partner made you feel so valued before, although you only saw glimpses of the man, the myth, the legend.

Joker shielded you from virtually ninety percent of himself. In reality, you didn't know a thing about Joker as a person.

He didn't talk about his organization or his past, he kept all his crimes and dealings out of your eye sight and quite honestly, he treated you like a naïve housewife while he led a double life.

He was a completely different person with you and that was perfectly fine! For now.

But at times you wanted to see Joker in his element. To witness that other side of him, the one he hid from your view.

You wanted to see the anarchist; the Crown Prince of Crime. The Joker that Gotham City feared. Would that Joker still love his Light or was that part of him too dangerous for you to be around?

You remembered him saying that he had negative thoughts about you. That his more violent side wanted to hurt you...

Was it safe to be with Joker if a part of him wanted you dead? You've seen what he was capable of on tv and word of mouth made him to be an absolute monster with no chance of redemption.

He burned cities because it's fun. He murdered hundreds because he could and he did all these unspeakable acts with a smile on his face. 

That version of Joker was scary but you only knew the J who ran candle lit bathtubs for you and bought you ice cream. A Joker who makes pancakes and takes your braids down with gentle hands.

You were very aware of Joker being a psychotic murderer but he was never like that towards you.

You doubted you'd ever see that side of Joker but you did your best to accept all of him with your limited knowledge. Not knowing the full version of Joker made your mother's question very tricky to answer but you had to say something.

"I-I don't think it'll matter, Ma. He's leaving soon... in four more months."

Your mother was perplexed. "Leaving? Does he travel for work or something?"

A loophole presented itself and you latched onto it. "It's complicated.. but he'll be g-gone soon and I.. I won't be able to love him anymore!"

Your bottom lip quivered and your mother jumped to action to hold you close. More tears stained her shirt but she didn't mind in the slightest. Her baby was hurting and now she knew why.

"Oh sweetheart, that's why you kept him a secret! He's not yours to keep. Forbidden love has vexed my baby's heart! There, there. Dry your tears. If it's one thing a Y/L/N is good at, it's getting what we want. Seduce the hell out of this man and see that he considers leaving! Mmhm. I didn't bless you with these curves for nothin'!"

She patted your hips and the swell of your breast in a teasing manner.

You were still upset but concerned more than ever. What was Mama on about? "Wait... are you telling me to pursue him despite the odds? Our fate is already set in stone."

Your mother gave you a, are you kidding me, look and crossed her arms.

"You're a romance writer dear. Don't let this deadline he created define the ending to this relationship. Rewrite your own fate. If you think he's the one, stop whining about the what ifs and get to cuffing that boy cuz I didn't raise no pussy."

Your mother had the audacity to look offended. This is exactly what you needed. A good heart to heart with your mother.

Her advice, although humorous, was precise and steered you into the right mindset to tackle this Joker situation.

It didn't matter what obstacle was thrown in you and J's way, he (subconsciously) cared about you. And you were absolutely in love. Somehow you would find a way to stay with him after this five month deadline he set elapsed.

You wiped your face dry and tackled your mother in a hug. "Thank you Mama!"

Once again it didn't matter how old you were. Your mother was always someone you could turn to whenever you needed to get something off your chest or a shoulder to cry on. She was your closest friend, confidant, and overall idol. Someday you wish to be just like your mother.

Her soothing laugh floated throughout the dark room and gave it life.

You were content staying in her arms since Joker was MIA to do the honors. However, she pulled away after a while.

"No need to thank me, that's what mamas do. Now! Let's talk about this dark and depressing room of yours. Black paint? It reminds me of your old room back at home, and where are the lights?"

You pointed up to the ceiling where a breathtaking mural of the galaxy was depicted with some of the stars being actual lights, all programmable from your device.

It was mood lighting that could range from different brightness settings and hues depending on your mood that day. Today it was a dim cool white, giving your pitch black room a hollow feeling.

If the glow from the nearby Fashion District pouring in from the window weren't available, your mother would literally be blind in here.

This room of yours was an exact representation of your true personality.

"You always had a fascination with the universe and mythology. Still a bit dark for my liking but I'll have to accept it— as long as you're not slipping into old habits." She warned.

You quickly shook your head despite you almost giving in to said temptation before she barged into your room.

Good thing she stopped you. Just what were you thinking?

Both of you glanced at your nightstand when an incoming notification made your phone screen light up. You couldn't read the fine print but the time was clear as day. It was after eight pm and you remembered you still had company over.

"Oh my God. I left everyone in the kitchen!" Your mother laughed at your startled panic and moved the plate away before you tipped it over.

There were only crumbs left after the long talk the two of you shared, but they would feel like rocks come bedtime if you did knock it over.

"Why don't we join them, yeah?" She suggested.

You and your mother walked in on the others laughing mid joke.

Everyone was clutching their sides at whatever your father had mentioned prior. It was the sound of pure joy and you wondered why you put such a damper on the mood with all the drama earlier.

Even if it was Dick's fault for instigating it.

Bruce seemed to notice your presence first. He scanned you over to make sure you were all right. Your eyes were a little puffy; you had been crying. He was concerned but announced your presence to the room nonetheless.

"Look who decided to join us." Multiple heads turned towards the archway where you and your mother stood, waiting to be noticed.

Your dad waved your mom over with a dazzling smile.

"Ahh there's my girls." He wrapped an arm around his wife and she pecked his forehead while rubbing his back.

They looked like any married couple in love. Literal couple goals. It was still a head scratcher to know they had issues in their relationship.

Your dad's voice called out to you from your musing. "You feeling better Y/n?"

"Mhm, yes sir. I-I'm sorry I ruined you and mom's visit.. I wasted so much time being a butt— now the two of you have to head back. I feel bad for–"

"Why don't we have a sleepover!?" Your mom suddenly suggested in the quiet kitchen.

.

.

.

.

.

What?

"Babe, what are we teenagers?" He snorted at your mom. "Although the idea was rather tempting."

He scratched at the slight scruff on his chin. His e/c eyes found Morgana's when she hummed in thought.

"Mmm it is getting pretty late." She mentioned. "I'm down. What about you Red?" She looked over at Barbara who was already half asleep in her wheelchair.

The florist poked the redhead on the shoulder. She startled back awake and glanced around. Surprisingly, Barb knew exactly what was being discussed.

"Sounds good to me. I honestly don't feel like calling an Uber this late." Barbara groaned. Her green eyes flickered over to Dick and Bruce, wondering if they had any objections.

Nightwing and Batman had their routine patrols and she could get some work done at the Clocktower nearby should they decide to work tonight.

However, if they wanted a night off.. then hey.

"Sheesh it's a long drive back to the Manor old man. Sure you don't wanna just kick it over here?"

You almost snapped your neck to glare at Dick. Why was this man talking like it was his apartment?!! He was acting a plum fool speaking on your behalf today. Did you not have a say on things anymore?

"Uhh? It's just an hour drive, he'll be fine." You gritted through your teeth.

Morgana stage coughed and your dad loudly sipped his beverage at the frosty tone you used. Someone didn't want Bruce over. If only others were wise enough to read the room.

Your mom was already discussing sleeping arrangements with Barbara as if you weren't standing right there.

You had to take a deep breath to stop yourself from screaming.

"Excuse me. Hi, owner of the apartment speaking um? And why.. do y'all wanna spend the night here!?"

This was NOT how your week was supposed to go! You didn't want Dick to stay for four days and this family get-together that he forced upon you was not on your bingo card either!

You had plans which included spending time with Joker but no one could know about that!!

You hadn't seen Joker since Monday and a girl was going through withdrawals— especially after such a wonderful weekend! Also you really needed to talk to J about the whole Florence knows our secret before it escalated way out of hand.

Honestly, where did your privacy go?

Whatever happened to your solitude and peaceful days spent alone in your penthouse where no one checked up on you for weeks?

You used to be a loner, a recluse! but these days it seemed like someone was always over; almost as if they knew you were trying to harbor a fugitive!

'Y'all really making it difficult for a girl.' You sighed internally.

"Like you have any plans Y/n. So it's all good if we stay." Morgana joked lightly.

Dick laughed from across the way. "Ouch, but what if she miraculously has plans? What if.. her Prince Charming comes home?!"

Both of them gasped. Then everyone turned to look at you. What were the odds of him coming back while they were here? They had to stick around and find out!

Bruce narrowed his eyes but hoped his demeanor came off more aloof. He'd like to meet the competition..

You were too busy pulling a face at Morgana and Dick to notice Bruce. Just what were these two on about?

"If I did have plans, they're ruined now! I uhhh he's not.. um he's behind on errr w-work things.. stuff.. after spending the weekend with me. So t-try again!"

The awkward silence after your jumble of words was stifling. Luckily your parents knew exactly what you said, having years of experience with decoding your flustered speech.

Your mom pouted. "Oh bummer. I was hoping to meet him."

"Omg, same!!" Dick groaned. Barbara rolled her eyes while your father patted your mom's hip before speaking up.

"We'll get to meet him babe, just be patient. Aight then, it's settled. Let's spend the night and in the morning we'll make breakfast for everyone."

They were literally making plans like your opinion didn't matter. Were you even needed here if they made all the decisions without you?

You had to put your foot down somewhere.

"Mama, I don't have enough room for everyone!" Boom, problem solved. Now everyone would go home—

"Yes you do Miss. four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. Do the math; two people per room! It's just a matter of picking a rooming buddy, Y/n."

Barbara decided to add to your mother's input. "I already have a room set up here and Morgana can bunk with me." She stated.

And not one to be left out Dick decided to add in his two cents. "Me too. I'm already sleeping in Y/n's other guest room. The old man can share with me, that is, if he can handle not sleeping on imported sheets for one night."

Bruce rolled his blue eyes at the veiled insult. He slept in far worse places as Batman. But why was everyone in agreement? Was this tag team Y/n night?

You wanted to sink into the floor and die. Why did you even bother trying to stop this ridiculous idea of theirs? It was clearly out of your control.

You looked over at your mom as she nodded at something Bruce had said. Did she not notice or care that this was the exact opposite of what you wanted?

You wanted everyone to leave. The sooner they left, the quicker you could contact Joker to come back. Quite honestly, you didn't know how to go about contacting him but dang it, you couldn't try if everyone was still here!

If only you knew that Joker was far closer than you realized.

"See sweetheart? Everything is settled. Your father and I will take the last bedroom—"

"It's empty." You interjected. "Like barren, nothing inside empty. I originally used it as an office but I moved out here into the living room and never furnished it back."

You hoped this would finally be the excuse to end this idea but alas your mother was thinking one step ahead of you.

"Oh.. we'll sleep in your room with you! That giant colossal bed you have, you won't even notice us in it."

Your mom giggled and attracted her husband's attention. He pulled her into his lap. "Two adjectives? It must be huge then."

"I kid you not, it's huge! Like the ones you see on tv big!"

"Like a California king?" Dick tossed out of the blue. For a moment you forgot he was still here. You noticed him, Barbara, and Bruce whispering amongst themselves as Morgana stepped away to use the bathroom.

What could the three of them have to say that needed to be all hush hush?

"Yes that!" Your mom agreed until you groaned.

"No.. it's an Alaskan king mom. It came with the penthouse when I moved in. But invade my safe space, it's not like I care or anything! I clearly don't have a choice anymore."

Mom clapped again, obviously overjoyed about spending more time with her daughter. You wished you were more enthusiastic about this like she was. You were giving up your sacred safe haven for a stupid sleepover. 

You weren't quite sure how you felt about that.

Morgana decided to return at that exact moment with her carefree personality. "Aight, what we doing now?"

"We're sleeping over! Oh sweetheart, do you have any..!"

And so the torture begins. You tuned everything out as the rest of your night was planned without your permission and the last piece of your privacy was bartered away.

You just shook your head and went to check the storage room for extra blankets, toothbrushes and things since this was actually happening. A sleepover with your parents and friends. Plus Bruce Wayne. Would it be rude to pay for a hotel room somewhere for your parents?

Kill me now. You sighed to yourself.

No one noticed you slip away except for Bruce. He raised an eyebrow at the grey clouds looming over your head. After your parents hinted at your mental health issues, he couldn't help but look at you differently.

There was a side to Y/n that Bruce didn't know existed.

What if that was the reason why you didn't pursue a relationship with him? However, it didn't make any sense since you were caught by the paparazzi with another man.

There was a piece of the puzzle missing and Bruce would find out what it was.

Maybe after you got everyone situated in their accommodations, he could pull you to the side and finally get the answers he sought. The unknown was eating him alive.

Elsewhere, someone else was letting their emotions eat away at them for entirely different reasons.

After sending you that text Monday afternoon, Joker forced himself to focus on work and not you. It was easier said than done.

He put his ear to the ground to follow the lead Ivan gave before he kicked the bucket but it was proving to be rather difficult. Whoever this person was, they were good at staying undetected. Joker had to find out who the snitch in his organization was and put an end to things before they did something really stupid.

Joker would annihilate them if they touched a single hair on your head. Simple as that.

Joker would not be mocked by this mysterious threat. This breach in his security would not happen again.

As much as Joker needed to stay focused on this manhunt for answers, he was starting to miss you. He regretted destroying the burner phone around Tuesday morning and by that same night, he was a bundle of nerves wanting to talk to or see you. Simply put, Joker craved your presence. 

Just what did you do to him? You had him acting like a high school boy with his first crush. 

Joker finally got a solid lead on Wednesday and pushed you in the farthest corner of his mind so he didn't screw things up.

It turned out to be excellent intel and an overall win-win situation given that Joker got the information he wanted and a gift for you at the same time.

Joker saw a Jacob and Co. bag in the guest bedroom closet and wanted to take this relationship stuff more seriously by buying you something.

What girl would turn down custom jewelry?

Then the long awaited Thursday arrived and Joker had to make a choice. He could brush off this bad feeling of his and leave you and your guests be or he could watch through the cameras he scattered around your apartment just out of pure curiosity.

He thought about it long and hard but ultimately decided to sit in and watch just a bit of your family dinner thingy. He barged into the control room and ordered everyone out before parking himself in front of the computer with an open mind.

He was unsure about the relationship you had with your parents. If you turned out alright did that mean they were good people?

Joker remained indifferent until he saw you walk into the kitchen area with a stylish denim jumpsuit with your hair down.

He rarely saw it in its natural unbound state. You always styled it up and out of the way somehow. Joker wanted to run his fingers through it and tug at it relentlessly.

D__n it was gorgeous. You were gorgeous..

Then he noticed the male in your kitchen. You interacted with him just like an old friend would until you said a last name. Grayson.

Joker remembered where he knew the nuisance from. He was one of Wayne's boys.

Honestly, who didn't you know? Joker wondered.

It seemed like you were close with all the goody-goody two shoes in this wretched city. But you were different. You weren't like them in the slightest, all pompous and high minded trying to line your pockets with money. You cared about the people; your stories proved that.

Joker watched as you helped cook and finish up the final preparations for the dinner party.

Your girlfriends arrived while Joker was distracted by another set of cameras but he immediately jumped back to your apartment when he heard it.

The sound of you crying.

It was a sound that could make his blood run cold. He didn't care that he was halfway across the city in Burnley, he would sped to your place and dispose of whoever made you cry.

"Mama..."

Oh. That's your mother? Well.. ahem.

Joker saw where you got your beauty from. And you definitely got your headstrong attitude from your father. The three of you were a sight to see, it almost made him smile.

Joker smacked his lips and pushed down the sappy feeling that bubbled up in his chest. So what if your family was close? He wasn't hoping for any bad blood between you or anything. Although, he did wish he could be there in person.

Something instinctual told Joker he should've been there to meet your parents. He felt bad knowing you'll never get to introduce him to them.

Having a secret relationship was the worst.

Things were rather boring until you got up to open the front door again. Joker was seething with rage as he watched his third in command enter your apartment.

What was Neo thinking associating himself with you?!

Joker specifically stated that your apartment was off limits and to make matters worse, the male sat at the table right next to you.

Ohhhhhh the next time Joker saw Neo, the club owner was gonna get it.

Joker read the room and could tell everyone was curious about Neo but they kept it to themselves until another unexpected guest was brought into your apartment.

Was this test Joker's patience day?

Did he upset the big guy upstairs because Joker was going through several emotions when he saw the one and only Bruce Wayne walk into your dining room as if he owned it.

Why did you let him in? Did you invite him?

No... you looked far too uncomfortable for that to be the case. Bruce sat to your left and preened at the attention he received. Of course your parents adored him. Everyone did except you.

You were caged in and outnumbered.

Joker knew you were planning an escape after watching you bite your lower lip. His poor bunny was overwhelmed.

You wouldn't be so upset if he was there. He was questioning if he should crash the party when it drastically escalated.

"Oh she enjoyed her weekend alright. Not with him tho."

Joker wanted to stab Neo through the security camera.

He imagined every possible way to murder the idiot for opening his mouth and starting this mess. It was the spark that ignited the catastrophic events that spiraled out of control once your friend Flo entered the discussion.

Joker was starting to like the Haitian.. not anymore.

The second she got in your personal space and called you names, the b___h had to go. Nevermind the fact that you were on the verge of tears and that Wayne had his hands on you... (Joker would worry about that later) there were bigger problems at hand.

"Of all people, why him, Y/n? Have you lost your mind?"

"Both of you are insane. You two deserve each other."

Joker was out of his chair in record time. That didn't sound good. Joker's bad feeling was back and stronger than ever hearing Florence's choice of words.

Joker put so many countermeasures into place to keep himself a secret but your best friend managed to discover him regardless. She had to know.

The 'both of you are insane' comment was enough confirmation.

This could all be a misunderstanding! Joker would give Florence the benefit of doubt however she sounded quite sure of herself. If that were the case, then she was a threat and Joker couldn't afford another enemy right now.

There were protocols for these types of situations and unfortunately you weren't going to like the outcome of it.

Neo wasn't answering his phone but he knew what to do. He had to neutralize the threat before it had the chance to spread.

Just like a virus, your friend would be suppressed before she became too powerful. That's the way things were in Joker's life. Survival of the fittest.

A shame you would worry your pretty little head about if her demise was your fault. Joker could never confess and tell you the things he did. It would break your heart and turn you away from him.

He needed you in his life. His precious Light amidst the darkness.

So what if he lied and went behind your back? You were easy to deceive, it was nothing for Joker to continue. He would gladly be your confidant when in reality, he was the monster you should ultimately fear.

Joker would do anything to keep you in his arms.

Which is why upon reaching ground level and seeing the incoming text from Neo, Joker knew he didn't deserve you. Not in a million years.

3rd: problem solved

You handed out toothbrushes, pillows, changed bed sheets, cleaned up the kitchen, and wished everyone a good night before you finally had a moment to yourself.

Mom and dad flipped out seeing your private bathroom and you gave them plenty of time to enjoy the sunken tub.

They were acting like newlyweds in a five star hotel. Mom found your white robes and your dad fell in love with the numerous body scents you had available. To them your place was a hotel.

You chuckled under your breath and let the idiots in love have a moment. You stepped out into the hallway, yawning after such a long and mentally exhausting day. 

Morgana and Barbara were already passed out in the redhead's semi-permanent room a few doors down, and the light was off in Joker's room.

You truly hoped that neither Dick or Bruce got curious and poked around the room for Joker's things. You failed to hide anything before everyone came over and you doubted J cared enough to put his things away.

He thought no one would be in the apartment. You thought so too..

It was probably after midnight for all you knew. Your feet carried you outside onto the balcony to clear your head. It was still pounding with all the drama that it went through today.

Between your parents finally visiting and your secret relationship being exposed, you had a lot to process.

You were running on fumes yet you were wide awake. Gotham City never slept and you watched the people on the street as your mind wandered.

The possibility of GCPD officers busting your door down looking for Joker was high on the list of what ifs. Or a scenario of news cameras and reporters swarming your place wanting an inside scoop on what it was like dating The Joker.

Like you would ever tell. Now, if they didn't mind the wait then they could read all about it in your upcoming book. Perhaps you could add something similar to your current struggle for your heroine.

So many possibilities were forming in your head, you didn't hear the footsteps behind you until the person spoke up.

"You'll catch a cold out here dressed like that."

You jumped around only to find Bruce holding the blanket from your living room couch up.

A kind gesture, but you weren't in the mood. "Um. Thanks but I'll be fine."

Bruce sighed but covered you regardless with the heavy fabric. His hands were warm when they came in contact with your bare shoulders.

Everyone had changed into pjs of sorts to spend the night. Barbara already had spare clothes here and she shared what she had with Morgana. You offered your mother your entire closet for the night and your father was skeptical when you provided men's wear for him to sleep in.

Okay so what if you shopped in the men's department? Baggy clothes were comfy!

Bruce had a change of clothes with him. You thought that was odd; maybe it was a rich person thing to always come prepared?

He was dressed in lounge pants and a Gotham University shirt that looked nearly identical to the one Dick left behind ages ago.

But that couldn't be right. Bruce and Dick were nowhere near the same build. Both were athletic but Bruce was a beefy wall of muscle. His thighs could probably break watermelons in half..

Not that you were thinking about it! You looked at a neon sign in the distance. Anything to avoid staring at Bruce. And he obviously noticed.

"How do I say this? You've been distant lately. Especially to me." Bruce said.

"Uh.. yeah? I hope so since I broke things off with you and if you haven't noticed over dinner— I've moved on. You're the one that keeps being nice and getting along with my parents.."

You mumbled more under your breath but your head was turned away for Bruce to catch it. He hated when you did that.

He smiled softly, "Should I be rude instead, Y/n?"

"Yeah." You said without missing a beat.

"I'm afraid I can't do that. I can't help the way I feel for you either. I told you, Y/n. I fear there won't be another woman after you."

Bruce stepped closer, causing you to back away and hit the balcony railing with your hip. Your claustrophobia was slowly creeping in.

"A-Are you planning on waiting or something?" You barely caught his eyes pleading with yours before you looked away.

"You're worth the wait, yes."

In any other situation, you would've been smitten over the moon that a man as perfect as Bruce Wayne was willing to wait for you. What girl wouldn't be? It was something straight out of a fairy tale.

But this was real life and yours was rather uncertain at present. The choice wasn't ideal but your heart already belonged to another.

"What's not clicking? You saw the tabloid. I-I'm with someone else... why are you getting closer?"

Bruce backed you flush to the railing and your hackles rose in fear. When did it get so hot and why were you suddenly so itchy? Your brain had turned into mush and you couldn't hear anything but a high-pitched ringing in your ear.

Bruce was brushing a loc of your hair back and failed to notice the warning signs.

"Y/n, people have weekend hook-ups all the time. I'm not concerned. However, the two weeks we shared? Now that was something real. Don't lie and say you don't want it."

You didn't hear Bruce's smooth voice anymore. It was replaced with another one that said the exact sentence but with a more slimier tone. It brought back memories that you thought you had erased.

"Don't lie and say you don't want it."

Was this seriously happening again? You were back in that alleyway. You could feel the cold brick wall against your back..

"We have a connection Y/n.." Bruce whispered to you softly yet you could only focus on the phantom in your head. "You know I love you baby..."

The two voices blended together; your past and the present.

"Just let me in."

You never received a noise complaint the entire time you lived here. But that night, tenants from two floors below heard your scream.

#ledger joker x reader #ledger joker #joker x reader #joker x y/n #dark knight joker #black!fem!reader #reader insert #romance #yandere #angst #cross posted on wattpad #cross posted on ao3 #heath joker #long reads #his lighthouse