We’re back with chapter 2 of ‘Ribbon Dancer.’

In today’s chapter, Carl returns to The Ribbon, deciding to work rather than go home and vent his feelings over the loss of Aminia. However, an unruly patron makes him wonder if returning to work was such a good idea.

This is a fan fiction based on Chris Lester’s Metamor City universe.

• The Raven and the Writing Desk
  • Main Site: https://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/
  • On Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk-102012
• The Metamor City Podcast: http://www.metamorcity.com/
• Snap Studio Voice Booth: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08B4ZYM72/?coliid=IXUBGSY9EOWW7&colid=9RBU1XFP75LM&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.caEmail: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Hello and welcome back!

Today I have some brand-spanking new fiction for your thirsty ears. I’m presenting – for the first time – ‘Ribbon Dancer,’ the sequel to my Metamor City fan fiction project ‘Rebirth.’

The story picks up about 2 years after ‘Rebirth.’ Carl is adjusting to his life as a theriomorph, has a ‘night job’ with more of his kind, and life is doing fairly well for him. However, one small event sends him down a rabbit hole that will test him sorely…and maybe give him something he’s been wanting for a long time.

Show Notes:

• The Raven and the Writing Desk
  • Main Site: https://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/
  • On Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk-102012
• The Metamor City Podcast: http://www.metamorcity.com/
• Casting Call Club: https://www.castingcall.club/
• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Today I have Part 2 of ‘Rebirth,’ my Metamor City fan fiction for your listening pleasure.

I also wax a bit on my feelings now that I have a new job starting in a few days, and talk about what I’ll be airing on this show next.

• The Raven and the Writing Desk
  • Main Site: https://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/
  • On Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk-102012
• The Metamor City Podcast: http://www.metamorcity.com/
• Casting Call Club: https://www.castingcall.club/
• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Hello again.

Now that ‘Outcast’ is done for now and ‘A New Beginning’ is being worked on, I wanted to take a bit of a break away from Dalan’s world and dive into the mystical, magical world of Chris Lester’s Metamor City.

This story, ‘Rebirth,’ was originally read by Chris on his podcast, but like ‘Outcast’ I’ve gone over it again, tightened up a few points, and I think it’s a better version of what it once was.

So, over the next two episodes, allow me to take you on a trip to Metamor City, and the beginnings of Carl McAllister’s journey to a new life.

• The Raven and the Writing Desk
  • Main Site: https://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/
  • On Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk-102012
• The Metamor City Podcast: http://www.metamorcity.com/
• Casting Call Club: https://www.castingcall.club/
• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

This is it. After all the trials and tribulations, the highs and the lows, the joy and the tears…the final chapter of the re-mastered version of ‘Outcast’ is here.

In this chapter:

In the aftermath of Te’Ki’s departure, Dalan learns of her fate, and his path to redemption is secured in his mind.

• The Raven and the Writing Desk
  • Main Site: https://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/
  • On Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk-102012
• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Welcome back!

The end is in sight, folks. Just one more chapter after this and the re-mastered version of ‘Outcast’ will be fully posted both here and on the original ‘Outcast’ site. For today, I have chapter 26 for you ready to go.

It’s been a long road to get here, and while I am looking ahead to new challenges and stories, this one will be going back into the lab before I’m ready to submit it for publishing. If you’ve followed along this far, you know that the audio quality has been all over the place as I’m trying to find the ‘sweet spot’ for the kind of sound I want. I think I’ve finally found it, and now will be re-recording ‘Outcast’ using this single setup to provide a consistent quality audio recording.

And on top of that, I’ll be pushing forward with the next book in the series, ‘A New Beginning,’ so yeah, I’m gonna be a busy boy for the next little while.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Dalan accepts the fact that his life will be the price to end the growing threat against his family, but in a moment of reprieve, he lashes out and his true feelings boil to the surface…with tragic results.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Hello and welcome back everyone!

Today I have chapter 25 of ‘Outcast’ on deck for you. As always I’m cross-posting this episode on the original Outcast feed as well.

In this episode: Dalan and Te’Ki deal with the aftermath of Dalan’s rescue of his siblings from the Shatlia, and he learns of a growing situation in the Clans. He also deals with the realization that his and Te’Ki’s original plans to just leave it all behind have come crashing down.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Whoa! Two weeks in a row? I might be on a roll here as we get close to the end of this novel.

Today I have chapter 24 of ‘Outcast’ for you.

In this episode, Dalan continues to plan for he and Te’Ki to leave the dwelling and strike out on their own as exiles on the run. However, fate decides (as always) to complicate things and throw another wrench into his plans.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com
• Kay Bess Blog: Self Sabotage and the Valley of Despair: https://kay-bess-voiceover-coaching.mykajabi.com/blog/self-sabotage-and-the-valley-of-despair
• Kay Bess Voice Over Coaching: https://kay-bess-voiceover-coaching.mykajabi.com/
• Gravy For the Brain: https://canada.gravyforthebrain.com

Well, looks like 2021 is turning into the ‘Hold My Beer’ of 2020. It’s been a while, and I apologize for that, but I’m now here with Episode 23 of ‘Outcast.’

In this chapter, Dalan starts working through the possible repercussions of his revelation. If he’s right, the reasons for his exile go far deeper than a mere robbery and failed murder.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

After a bit of some time off, I’m back with Chapter 22 of Outcast.

In this episode, Dalan is questioned by Tomas about his exile.

At first, the young tiger is hesitant to delve into it, but an incident at the Port Authority helps him put things in perspective. He then begins to question the nature of his exile, and arrives at a startling conclusion…

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Today I have chapter 21 of ‘Outcast’

In this episode: Dalan returns home after his revelatory conversation with Khrasa, but instead of Te’Ki waiting for him, someone else is. He begins to understand the gravity of his situation, and what he might have to do in order to truly regain his honor.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

In today’s chapter:

The beast within Dalan struggles to get free. It had a taste of violence and craves more, causing Dalan to give into his anger and frustration. Determined to understand what’s happening to him, Dalan confronts Khrasa, wanting answers…and willing to kill him should he refuse.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Today I have chapter 19 of ‘Outcast’ for you.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains scenes of sexual abuse, coercion, enslavement, and drug use. Listener discretion is advised.

In this chapter: Te’Ki opens up to Dalan about her past, from the moment she was exiled to when she finally met him at the warehouse. Will her sordid pass push Dalan away, or will it further inspire him to be there for her?

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Hello and welcome back.

Today I have chapter 18 of ‘Outcast’ for you.

In this episode: Dalan and Te’Ki have been taken by a quartet of mystery assailants. Dalan learns hints of Te’Ki’s past and how she came to be in his country, and also learns a tiny bit of what he’s truly capable of as a student of the L’au Tari.

CONTENT WARNING: This chapter contains scenes of sexual abuse, implied sexual abuse, and graphic violence. Listener discretion is advised.

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Today we have chapter 17 of ‘Outcast’ on deck for you, and a small story about me meeting – and surprising – an accomplished fantasy author.

Content Warning: This chapter contains scenes of suggested sexual content, and suggested child abuse. Listener discretion is advised.

Show Notes:

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com
• Singularity by Bill DeSmedt, available at Scribl.com: https://scribl.com/books/P6C1E/singularity
• The Secret World Chronicles: http://secretworldchronicle.com/

Today I have chapter 16 of Outcast

WARNING: This episode contains scenes of consensual mature content of an intimate nature. While explicit language is not used, there is allusion to sex between two people.

In this episode, Dalan returns to his dwelling after his weekend retreat with Khrasa, expecting to come home to an empty home. However, our young tiger is in for a surprise.

Show Notes

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com
• Amaran’s Plight: Consummation Opus – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOwwelcafzY

Today I have chapter 15 of Outcast for you.

In today’s episode, Dalan continues to train with Khrasa during their mountain retreat. He agonizes over the possibility of losing Te’Ki after his last-minute confession to her, but before long he has other things to think about.

Show Notes

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

In today’s episode I have chapter 14 of ‘Outcast’ for your listening pleasure.

In today’s chapter, Dalan finally confesses to Te’Ki about his training as a L’au Tari, an art deemed forbidden by the Clans. He doesn’t know how Te’Ki’s upbringing viewed the Beast Walkers, and even after he leaves for his first retreat he’s not sure what she truly thinks of him now.

During the retreat, Dalan gains some insight into his true quest, and what he’s really fighting for.

Show Notes

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

In this episode, I have chapter 13 of Outcast.

In this week’s chapter, Te’Ki’s assailant is identified, and Dalan learns that the Clans are not only fallible, but the reasons behind his exile might not be so cut and dried as they once were.

Show Notes

• The Kick In the Cast on Podchaser: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• The Kick In the Cast website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

In today’s episode I have Chapter 12 of the remade ‘Outcast’ for your listening pleasure.

In this chapter, Dalan and his new roommate finally begin to talk to each other. He learns her name, where she’s from, and they quickly form a friendship that promises to blossom into something much more.

But Dalan knows that when her sickness passes that she’ll have no reason to stay with him. What happens then? What is he to her?

Show Notes

• Website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Podchaser site: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• Original site: https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca

In today’s chapter, Dalan begins his first day of work at the Karalla City Port Authority, and soon learns that no matter how far he goes, the specter of being discovered will always hang over him, ready to tear down his disguise and expose him as an exile to the world.

His new roomate also finally speaks to him, and he’s shocked at what she has to say.

Also, at the end of the episode, I share a little story of a fan who had no idea who I was until someone else let the secret out.

Show Notes

• Website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Podchaser site: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• Original site: https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca

And hello again. Welcome back and I apologize for being away so long. The explanation is in today’s episode.

Today is chapter 10 of my re-mastered and re-edited podcast novel ‘Outcast.’ As always, I am cross-posting this episode on my original ‘Outcast’ podcast feed.

In today’s chapter, Dalan makes sure his new house guest is alive and well after finding her near death the night before. Afterward, he sets out to find a job and make his first few productive steps in this new life of his.

Show Notes

• Website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Podchaser site: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• Original site: https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca

Well, it took a bit of blood, sweat, tears, and putting up with some hellacious weather, but here we are, back on track with Chapter 9 of Outcast, and the first double-digit episode of The Kick In the Cast.

Now that the show is 10 episodes long, I decided it was time to open the show up a bit more to the outside world, so I’ve created a page at Podchaser in the hopes of getting a few more listeners. The link for this new site will be below.

IN THIS EPISODE: Dalan re-connects with Cyrus at the warehouse and starts getting his new life together. However, an encounter when he returns to his dwelling promises to make his life a bit more interesting than he previously expected.

Show Notes

• Website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Podchaser site: https://podchaser.com/kickinthecast
• Original site: https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca

Hello again. Sorry for the wait; my throat wasn’t being very nice to me so I decided to give it some time off to heal and get my voice nice and restored.

So today I’ve got Chapter 8 of ‘Outcast’ for you, and as always I’m cross-posting this chapter on the original ‘Outcast’ podcast feed. If you’re listening to the show there, I’d encourage you to subscribe to this feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/kickinthecast.

In this chapter, Dalan deals with the aftermath of the horrific events from the night before. Just when he’s about to give up on any chance of carving out some kind of life, he’s made an offer…one he just can’t refuse despite the possible consequences.

Vocal effects for this chapter were thanks to Iwan Gabovitch at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KO03WA53U2A

BCbye3tXqzMN49G9sIzX

This week, I’m posting chapter 7 of my podcast novel ‘Outcast.’ As always, I’m cross-posting this show’s episode to the original ‘Outcast’ podcast feed.

WARNING: This chapter contains scenes of violence some may find offensive. Listener discretion is strongly advised. You have been warned.

Show Notes

• ‘The Kick In the Cast’ podcast feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/kickinthecast
• Show Website: https://kickit.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Hello again.

This week we’re continuing with Chapter 6 of ‘Outcast.’ As always, I’m crossposting this on my original ‘Outcast’ feed at https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca

In today’s episode, Dalan follows the map given to him to the Foundation’s meeting place. It takes some effort for him to arrive, and when he does, he realizes just how extensive the exile ‘problem’ is in the Karalla Valley.

He also meets several new faces, and is re-introduced to an old one…

Show Notes

My Voice Work site: https://sites.gravyforthebrain.com/website/chris-hvidsten/

Hello and welcome back. I’m glad to see you here.

Today we’re continuing with Chapter 5 of ‘Outcast,’ cross-posted both here and on the original ‘Outcast’ feed at https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca.

In this chapter, Dalan awakens after a painful night in his new home: his former Clan’s dwelling for exiles. As he gets used to his new surroundings and situation, the young tiger learns that someone is in fact watching out for him: an organization that offers some small help to those newly exiled.

He makes plans to travel to a place where exiles are known to dwell, though to get there he will have to run a veritable gauntlet through an industrial wasteland, where who knows what is waiting for him.

Show Notes

• ‘Outcast’ podcast feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/podshow/outcast
• The Kick In the Cast podcast feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/kickinthecast
• Outcast podcast site: https://outcastnovel.yo5.ca
• Email: outcastnovel@gmail.com

Welcome back. So glad to see you back here again.

Today we have chapter 4 of ‘Outcast’ for your listening pleasure. I also do a bit of philosophical waxing about the art of podcasting, and what it means to me. It’s just my opinion about the commitment podcasters should have in regards to their audience, and admittedly it’s one with which I’ve had some very limited success. I’m hoping that with this show that I can change all that for myself, and become the kind of podcaster that has earned their audience.

In today’s chapter, Dalan is finally on his way home. After a grueling month in physical rehabilitation, he is ready to resume his life with his family and in Clan society. However, his return home is not as warm and welcoming as he thought it would be.

Hello and welcome back.

Today we’re continuing with Chapter 3 of ‘Outcast,’ which will also be cross-posted to the original podcast feed for the story.

In this chapter, Dalan begins his rehabilitation in the hospital, and tries to cope with his new cybernetic implants. He learns not only the value of patience as his body continues to heal, but also of the potential he now possesses.

After the chapter, I share a bit of my own medical experience from a couple of years ago. Anyone who dedicates their lives to saving others has my total and utter respect and admiration. In the times in which we are now, they are the true heroes, and we should all do all we can to help them. Not to get political, but if you can prevent the spread of this virus with a few simple changes to your lifestyle, isn’t that worth it if you can save a life, or ease the burden of the medical community?

As always, if you’d like to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode, you can do so at http://feeds.feedburner.com/kickinthecast

And here we are again. Welcome back. I hope things are going well for you and that you’re staying safe in these bizarre times.

Today, we’re continuing the story of ‘Outcast’ with chapter 2. You can play it live here or download it to listen later.

I’ve made a couple more changes to my recording rig, mostly by adding a shock mount to my microphone setup. I recorded the commentary for this episode using it, and it sounds like there’s an improvement in overall quality. I think the next step from here is to work on upgrading the microphone setup itself.

Show Notes

Matthew Ebel: You’re Not Good Enough – https://matthewebel.com/2014/11/13/youre-not-good-enough/

All right folks…today’s the day. After writing, re-writing, editing, swearing, wallowing in despair and biting my nails, I’m ready to release the first chapter of ‘Outcast.’

If you’re coming over from the original Outcast feed, I welcome you. I do hope you’ll subscribe to this show as well, though I will be cross-posting any ‘Outcast’ episodes on both podcast feeds for the time being. When the novel is finished, well, I haven’t thought that far ahead yet. We’ll see what happens.

If you’re reading this, you’ll notice a new widget on the right hand side of your screen. This is SpeakPipe, which gives you the chance to leave a quick voice feedback. I say quick because my current subscription level only allows for 90 seconds at a time. Still, if folks use it regularly, I’ll see about upgrading.

The feed for this podcast is now live at http://feeds.feedburner.com/kickinthecast. It’s the easiest way to subscribe.

Greetings, and welcome to the blog site for The Kick In the Cast, the audio blog of a wannabe podcast novelist. So glad you dropped by for a listen.

This first episode is more of an introduction, letting you all know who I am, my history with podcasting, and also discussing my future plans.

Next week we’ll be getting into my first story: Outcast. I hope you’ll check back next week for a listen. Until then, feel free to subscribe to the feed, and we’ll see you next time.

The Show Notes

The Raven and the Writing Desk Podcast (Thank you for the inspiration, Chris): http://chrislester.org/the-raven-and-the-writing-desk/

Shia LaBeouf – Introductions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAg4yMangmY