So, I was reading through the sub and noticed that every post was a vote or two lower than it had been. I can't see upvote/downvote totals to confirm (mobile app), but I think we may be getting brigaded.

I've also noticed some very unconstructive comments, basically accusing us of intentionally causing the recent stabbings.

I think that we're going to see 2 things:

1. A huge backlash from people who think we, as a community of authors and fans, are responsible for the recent tragedy. They'll brigade and post negative comments; write up and down on facebook and twitter about how we need to ban ARGS, etc. Those of us who are known by our friends/family will be confronted about this. I've personally been confronted a few timed, and some people used some pretty threatening language.

2. An increase in exposure to/interest in the mythos from those who either recognise that we're not insane followers of an imaginary boogeyman or simply want to know more before they pass judgement.

How we proceed as a community through this is pretty important.

We can't let this stop us from doing what we do. If you write a blog, direct a vlog, or participate in creating any of the strange and wonderful media used to tell our tales, please don't stop. We are not responsible for this; there are deeper problems here than creepy internet memes.

I'm not saying we should pretend this never happened. We need to acknowledge this and move on. If you're concerned, contribute to the victim's fund.

And please, for the love of god, DO NOT use ANY part of this for story material.

If you do respond to hype posts, please do so in an intelligent manner that makes us look good. If you give people links to information, make sure they're out of game.

This is the time for us to shine as a community. The public eye is going to be on us for a while, and interest will grow. Encourage positive interest; maybe send those who are looking into the mythos some starter links.

And please, if you receive any threats because of this, tell your local police.