#apprentice timothy

[kitsumidori]

Another Borderlands/Siren Song doodle sheet

I haven been in a creative slump lately, mainly because I've been playing Dead Space and I'm going to my cousin's wedding this weekend so I've been busy getting ready for that.

[lavenderlemonrose]

okay I've been reading a bunch of star wars books lately and I figured I'd review them here cause literally where else am I gonna talk about them

master and apprentice by claudia gray: I actually really loved this one! by far my favorite sw book I've read in a while. it's set before tpm, following qui-gon and obi-wan on a fairly routine mission but primarily focused on their relationship and how rocky it was in the beginning. I always love young obi books and this was no exception. I also really liked the writing style? often I can feel like sw books read kinda sterilized, esp disney canon like this one, presumably for some "brand integrity" shit, but this didn't read like that at all - it just felt like a rly good sci-fi novel. I'd had mixed experiences with claudia gray in the past, so this was a nice surprise.

brotherhood by mike chen: this was the other disney canon book I read, and although I still enjoyed it, I thought the writing was a little weaker than master & apprentice. this is set pretty soon after attack of the clones, and while it ostensibly focuses on anakin and obi-wan's changing relationship (hence the title), in reality they spent a large amount of the book apart, and it was pretty action-focused. it actually reminded me a little of the themes of secrets of the jedi, because both anakin's and obi-wan's povs dwelled frequently on their romantic attachments - padme and satine, respectively - in a clear narrative foil way. as someone who loved secrets of the jedi, I liked that part of it, but wished we had more interaction between anakin and obi-wan themselves.

survivor's quest by timothy zahn: this is a legends novel set after luke and mara's wedding, following them as they explore the wreckage of outbound flight and uncover a conspiracy. this was a good example of a slightly sterilized book - although zahn is obviously a gifted writer, and tried to explore nuance in luke and mara's relationship, the focus was still very much on the plot, and the relationship tidbits ended up feeling forced to me. I still enjoyed the book, but probably wouldn't reread it in a hurry.

tatooine ghost by troy denning: another legends novel, this one following han and leia shortly after their marriage. I only realized partly through that this one was released around the same time as attack of the clones hit theaters - while the plot is primarily about han and leia attempting to keep a rebellion code key out of imperial hands on tatooine, the "ghost" in the title is shmi skywalker, whose video journal leia finds and watches throughout the course of the book. as a result, we get a pretty exact summary of the events of the phantom menace and the rest of shmi's life, from leia's perspective. it was an interesting narrative device to use to frame leia's grappling with her father's identity. I wasn't able to fully enjoy the book, however - I felt like han acted kind of ooc throughout it, at times seeming to uncomfortably pressure leia to consider the idea of having children, or to resent her for her continued close involvement in the new republic.

these were the sw books on the top of my tbr, so idk when I'll get to more, but when I do I might make another post like this

[brucewaynehater101]

AU Idea:

Tim Drake watches Batman fall apart after Jason's death. He watches the anger, grief, desolation, and fear destroy the man as he tries to take Gotham down with him. Tim watches as no one helps, no one stops him, and no one does anything.

Tim knows something must be done, even if he has to do it himself.

The problem is that Tim's no expert. He's a thirteen year old kid who's never experienced parenthood or loss like Bruce has. With the knowledge he has now, how could he be any use?

Tim can't be, but that's an aspect he can change. He can study grief, emotions, and psychology. He just needs a teacher.

It's a stupid idea, the one a young Timothy Drake comes up with, but it has the potential to work. It's dangerous, unbelievably stupid, but, if it works, Tim will be better equipped to help Bruce through his devastation.

All he needs to do is become Dr. Crane's apprentice

[deliciousangelfestival]

Underworld Insomnia || 1 - B.Barnes

Character : Bucky × Psychiatrist Female!Reader

Summary: As a ruthless contract killer, Bucky is feared in the underworld of criminals. His opponents freeze when they see him, as he is feared among them. However, they don't know that he could be warm to only one person: his pshychiatrist. The only person who could make him fall asleep.

Chapter 1, Chapter 2 , Chapter 3 , Chapter 4 , Chapter 5 ,-

Main Masterlist || support: Ko-fi

Thank you to everyone who has read this chapter. Please let me know what your thoughts are. I'd love to hear your feedback. Thank you once again.

In the world of secret societies for underground criminals, there's a secret place for criminals to stay, a shop for criminals to buy their weapons, basically, criminals live like normal people but they can only go to places that are built for criminals.

That's the rule.

There's also a particular psychiatrist for criminals only. Since many of the criminals have demons in their minds.

For this job, Dr. Ben is the only person the criminals could go to and ask for advice and medicine so they could go to sleep. Most of them can sleep.

But the only person who has trouble is Bucky Barnes.

His name is enough to make everyone in the underworld shiver. His eyes are enough to make his opponents freeze.

Bucky is their answer if anyone wants a job done without any mistakes.

With the money from the job he finished, he could have a comfortable life for generations. But he doesn't need it because all he wants right now is to sleep.

"I tried what you told me. Work out until I'm tired, learn something new, clean all my weapons, upgrade my car, renovate my house with bulletproofing, sex," Bucky said while he lay on the couch, looking at the ceiling.

Dr. Ben kept writing while listening to his patient.

"I even went to pottery class, baking class, painting class, and sex," Bucky counted on his fingers.

"Still. Nothing works. I still can't sleep. It's been 7 years," Bucky said.

Dr. Ben, who kept writing, replied, "Yeah, you have mentioned sex multiple times."

"White noise, pink noise. In the end, I smashed the Bluetooth speaker. None of your methods work," Bucky said as he sat up and glared at Dr. Ben.

Dr. Ben adjusted his reading glasses. He remained calm, probably one of the few people not afraid even though Bucky was angry.

He clicked his pen and put the report on the table.

"Do you want to try reading fairy tale books?" Dr. Ben asked.

Bucky pinched the bridge of his nose. "Are you joking with me?"

Dr. Ben replied, "Most of you people have a shitty childhood. Have shitty parents. Perhaps deep down, your kind wants something related to fulfilling your inner child."

Bucky exclaimed, "Woah, doctor, calm down. You're brutally honest here." He sighed, because he knew this method will failed like the rest. "Fine. I'll try." Then he lay back on the couch and closed his eyes.

Dr. Ben picked a children's book and started to read, he flipped through the pages, and began to read aloud, "Once upon a time, in a faraway kingdom, there lived a brave little mouse named Timothy."

"Timothy was no ordinary mouse," Dr. Ben continued, "for he possessed a heart as courageous as a lion and a determination that could move mountains."

"Stop. Stop. It's so weird listening to you. Get someone else," Bucky interrupted, feeling uncomfortable.

Dr. Ben closed the book. "I'll get my apprentice."

Bucky raised an eyebrow. "You've got a new one?" He knew that none of Dr. Ben's employees stayed that long, given the fear of criminals who kept coming for therapy.

Dr. Ben adjusted his glasses. "She could tame Bruce Banner; I think she could do the same to you."

Bucky rolled his eyes. "Fine."

Dr. Ben got up from his seat and opened his office door. "Y/N, help me for a bit," he called out.

Bucky heard a melodious voice respond, "Yes?"

The door swung open, revealing a woman with a confident stride and a calm demeanor. She had striking eyes that seemed to hold a depth of understanding, framed by a cascade of dark hair that fell gracefully around her shoulders.

Her posture exuded poise and assurance, hinting at a quiet strength within. She carried herself in professional attire with an air of authority, yet there was warmth in her expression as she met Bucky's gaze.

As you approach your boss, he suddenly puts a children's book in your hand.

You look at him, puzzled. "Huh?"

Dr. Ben pointed at Bucky and explained, "This person can't sleep for years. So I want to see if reading a children's story could make him fall asleep."

Bucky huffs in frustration. As a top assassin in the underworld, it's humiliating if he can only fall asleep with a children's book. "Just do it."

You flinch, knowing the man in front of you is dangerous.

Dr. Ben pats your shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry, he's just cranky. I'll be here too. I need to see if it's working or not."

"Okay," you respond, then sit in the chair near Bucky's couch.

Before opening the book, you can't help but notice the tattoos on his neck and hands.

"Are you done staring?" Bucky asks, irritation evident in his voice.

"Oh, right, I'm sorry," you apologize quickly. "I'll start reading. Once upon a time, in a faraway kingdom, there lived a brave little mouse named Timothy. Timothy was no ordinary mouse, for he possessed a heart as courageous as a lion and a determination that could move mountains."

As you continue reading, Bucky listens intently, his eyes focused on the ceiling as he tries to relax.

"Despite his small size," you continue, "Timothy dreamed of embarking on great adventures and proving himself to be the bravest mouse in all the land."

Bucky's tense expression begins to soften slightly as he listens to the soothing cadence of your voice.

"One day," you narrate, "a fierce dragon threatened the kingdom, causing panic among the inhabitants. But Timothy, undeterred by the danger, volunteered to confront the dragon and save his home."

Bucky's breathing starts to slow down as he gets engrossed in the tale, his earlier restlessness fading away.

"With unwavering courage," you go on, "Timothy faced the dragon, armed only with his wits and determination. And through his bravery and quick thinking, he managed to outsmart the fearsome beast and bring peace back to the kingdom."

As you reach the end of the story, Bucky's eyes grow heavy, and he finally begins to drift off to sleep, a sense of calm settling over him.

Dr. Ben watches silently, nodding in approval as he sees the story's effect on Bucky. It seems that, perhaps, there is power in the simplest of tales to soothe even the most troubled minds.

Bucky's eyes felt heavy. The childish story and your calm voice made him feel relaxed. Your voice seemed more effective than white noise in soothing his troubled mind. As he listened, the tension in his muscles gradually melted away, replaced by a sense of peace and tranquility.

Then Bucky opened his eyes, only to realize he wasn't in the same place in Dr. Ben's office anymore. He found himself on a bed inside an unknown room. Panic surged through him.

Had he been kidnapped?

It would bring shame to his name as the feared killer if true.

As he processed his surroundings, Bucky's hand instinctively went for his knife, ready to defend himself. But soon, he recognized the familiar surroundings of Dr. Ben's building. Relief washed over him, though he remained on edge.

A door creaked open, causing Bucky to tense, his grip tightening on the knife. But to his surprise, it was just Dr. Ben.

"Did you have a good sleep?" Dr. Ben asked calmly.

Bucky clicked his tongue in annoyance and massaged his shoulder. "No. Your methods didn't work. I'm still tired."

"Well, that's natural since you've been asleep for three days," Dr. Ben replied matter-of-factly.

Three days?!

He can't believe it, since he has only been able to sleep for one hour each night for the past seven years. Bucky's eyes widened in disbelief as he checked his phone, seeing the date and numerous missed calls and unread messages.

"It worked?" he muttered, incredulous. He had been able to sleep and hadn't even realized it.

Bucky's amazement lingered as he realized that he had slept for three whole days without even being aware of it. It was a stark contrast to the years of insomnia he had endured, struggling to find even a moment of rest.

The tension that had plagued his body for so long began to ebb away, replaced by a newfound sense of calmness and clarity. He couldn't deny the relief that washed over him, knowing that perhaps, just perhaps, there was hope for him yet.

Then, there was a knock on the door. It was you.

"How is he, doctor? Is he still asleep?" you asked, but you gasped when Bucky's intense gaze met yours.

Was he angry? Did he blame you for making him sleep for three days?

"Y/N, is it?" Bucky inquired.

You responded groggily, "Yes?"

Bucky got on his knees, his right hand resting on his left chest and his left hand reaching for you. He looked at you earnestly and asked, "Will you work for me?"

You were taken aback, as was Dr. Ben. Bucky's unexpected gesture felt like it could lead to a significant misunderstanding, resembling a proposal rather than a job offer.

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Author Note:

Hey friends,

If you've been enjoying the content, I've set up a Ko-fi account. Your support through tips would mean the world and help me keep creating. Only if you feel like it!

Here's the link: Ko-fi

Thanks a bunch for being fabulous followers!

[mossycobblestonewrites]

DC X DP PROMPT #26

Danny had to go. Preferably somewhere far away from the shit storm that his home dimension currently is. So he does. Phantom travels the multiverse looking for the perfect dimension to call Home. The search is long, and isn't very fruitful, but he learns something new nearly everyday!

He would have been fine to continue this pattern of exploring a new dimension, label it unsuitable, and move on. But Danny had managed to find himself in a Situation™.

Eight-year-old Timothy Drake is dead. He died alone in a mausoleum of his parents' neglect. Tim has not been dead long, in fact, his skin had yet to cool. This simple fact, paired with the unimaginable coincidence (I think not) of Danny entering this dimension directly on top of Tim, lead to two (2) miraculous things happening.

One; Timothy Jackson Drake, son of Janet and Jack Drake, was now a full-fledged ghost. Something that normally would not have happened in his situation.

Two; Danny James Fenton, apprentice of Clockwork, was now bound to the newly departed body of Tim Drake. Having portaled directly into the body as its original soul left it caused Danny to become trapped.

Tim cannot stray far from his body, he must now guide Danny in How To Be Tim.

[lochlogie]

The way Saxon wants Lochlan to be like him is the exact same framework of the relationship Tim has with Saxon: your only goal in life should be to become me, but you better fail.

Tim has a very condescending relationship with Saxon. We really only get two scenes highlighting this, but the first is his conversation with Saxon after his tantrum. He flat out lies to him and says he's impressed by Saxon's career thus far. Saxon knows that he doesn't have a lot going for him at work, and expresses frustration that he's not being trusted with more responsibility. Then at the party, Tim just keeps deflecting Saxon's accusations and ignores his heartfelt confession that all he'll ever be is Timothy Ratliff's son, and that he's okay with that. Because that's what Saxon has been ordained to do, follow in Tim's footsteps, but never overtake him.

Saxon takes this relationship and pays it forward to Lochlan. Except Lochlan is a high schooler, he has no career (and seemingly no ambitions in terms of a future career), so Saxon takes the only thing he is quote unquote good at, and constructs the same framework of a relationship. He's good at sex (allegedly). Therefore, Lochlan should want to be him, follow him, learn from him, mold himself into him, but he better not succeed. That defeats the entire purpose of this narcissistic... I don't even know what to call it. I also think it's telling that Saxon is much more involved and intense about it than Tim is with him.

Tim seems a little aloof with all of his children (Piper the least), and maybe Saxon is so much more forward because he wants to feel like the Man, the Alpha, the Big Dog. He doesn't get affirmation or respect from his dad so he turns the dial hard trying to farm these feelings from his little brother. If his self worth can't come from making his dad proud it sure will come from having his little brother worship him. And a cornerstone of that is that Lochlan can't actually succeed. He can't learn from Saxon and then score chicks (heavens forbid start pulling more girls than Saxon). That defeats the whole point.

So Saxon is constantly putting Lochlan down, making snide little comments, seemingly sabotaging his efforts, making Lochlan look young and inexperienced and awkward and cute in front of the women he is supposedly trying to get his brother to fuck. Lochlan can only ever be the student, always in need of more advice or assistance, shadowing Saxon, watching and learning. Maybe by being Saxon's wingman, his adorkable baby brother who makes Saxon look more tolerable to women? Lending a helping hand? No not like that Lochlan!

I think Victoria's relationship with Piper is somewhat similar. But it's different because they're women. What does Victoria value most in life? Comfort, beauty, status, wealth. Piper's only goal in Victoria's eyes is to not embarrass the family, find a husband, and start her own family. And the thing is, Piper is already younger than Victoria, she's already succeeded at besting Victoria at her own game. So I think that's why Victoria has a much more fraught relationship with her daughter. If her narcissism demands Piper become her but fail... but Piper can't fail because she'll always be younger and prettier than Victoria is... I can see that resentment clouding every aspect of their interactions. Piper can't be Victoria's doe eyed apprentice or lackey like Lochlan is to Saxon as Saxon is to Tim.

Even when Piper wants to do something pretty harmless like take her eat pray love gap year in Thailand, which would not harm her "prospects," at all, certainly not more than Tim's crimes and humiliation, Victoria is adamant that Piper is throwing her life away. I can easily imagine that Piper has spent her whole life having every decision scrutinized by Victoria. She's been nitpicked clean, and she can't take it anymore. That's why she's daddy's girl, and it's also why mama's boy Saxon takes up the charge and bullies Piper on their mom's behalf.

Which brings me to Victoria's relationship to Saxon: if Piper will always be a younger version of her, and she resents that... Saxon will always be a younger version of Tim. But also a combination of Tim and her, their first born, the boy that made her a mother. Of course he's the apple of her eye. And there's no doubt in my mind her life plan includes Saxon taking care of her if Tim should ever pass. And isn't Tim about to lose everything for them and probably go to jail (if only for a few months)? She's probably been adultifying and toying with emotional incest with Saxon for a long time.

Same thing with Tim and Piper, but the inverse obviously. Piper is not a threat to Tim's grandiose master of the universe narcissistic persona. She's daddy's girl, she is a precious object that Tim is meant to cherish and then give away to a man who impresses him (a man he will undoubtedly expect to be similar to himself). He kind of has a soft spot for Piper, but he's very comfortable pretending that he's getting rid of their phones for her sake, and the way she lights up at that... ouch.

Meaning neither parent really ever gave a fuck about Lochlan. The heir (Saxon) has a spare, and he's a boy, so he's not a resource to be traded to another rich family for more status. He can't do anything for them so they're content to just focus on the most "egregious" ways he embarrasses the family name, namely posture.

The Ratliff family structure is built by bricks and mortar of pure narcissism. Narcissistic parents pitting their children against each other, demanding their loyalty and emulation, but unable to cope with the idea that their children could ever surpass them (you know, like normal parents would be thrilled about). Those children in turn recreate a similar dynamic with the youngest, who they almost treat more like their pet than anything else.

[azalea-blooming]

I just had an Idea. What if Damian met Tim during the time he was training with Lady Shiva? I’m like 90% sure Damian trained with her at some point, and I know for sure that Tim did. So what if they met through her?

then when Damian ends up in Gotham he recognizes Tim not as Robin but as lady shiva’s apprentice. I imagine it would go smth like this:

Tim, opening the door: Hi

Damian: Timothy?

Tim: Damian???

Damian: Why are you here?

Tim: I live here. Damian: *shocked murder baby noises*

[masterjedilenawrites]

List of books below, taken from the Star Wars wiki. Only included: Original Novels, Novel Adaptations, Script Books, and Young Adult Novels. Please no comments about books that are missing from the list... it is what it is.

The High Republic: Convergence - Zoraida Cordova

The High Republic: Path of Deceit - Tessa Gratton, Justina Ireland

The High Republic: The Battle of Jedha - George Mann

The High Republic: Path of Vengeance - Cavan Scott

The High Republic: Cataclysm - Lydia Kang

The High Republic: Into the Dark - Claudia Gray

The High Republic: Light of the Jedi - Charles Soule

The High Republic: The Rising Storm - Cavan Scott

The High Republic: Out of the Shadows - Justina Ireland

The High Republic: Tempest Runner - Cavan Scott

The High Republic: Midnight Horizon - Daniel Jose Older

The High Republic: The Fallen Star - Claudia Gray

The High Republic: The Eye of Darkness - George Mann

The High Republic: Defy the Storm - Tessa Gratton, Justina Ireland

The Vow of Silver Dawn - His Majesty the King

Dooku: Jedi Lost - Cavan Scott

Padawan - Kiersten White

Master & Apprentice - Claudia Gray

The Living Force - John Jackson Miller

Queen's Peril - E.K. Johnston

Queen's Shadow - E.K. Johnston

Inquisitor: Rise of the Red Blade - Delilah S. Dawson

Queen's Hope - E.K. Johnston

Brotherhood - Mike Chen

Catalyst: A Rogue One Novel - James Luceno

Thrawn Ascendancy: Chaos Rising - Timothy Zahn

Dark Disciple - Christie Golden

Thrawn Ascendancy: Greater Good - Timothy Zahn

Thrawn Ascendancy: Lesser Evil - Timothy Zahn

Ahsoka - E.K. Johnston

Thrawn - Timothy Zahn

Lords of the Sith - Paul S. Kemp

Tarkin - James Luceno

Most Wanted - Rae Carson

Solo: A Star Wars Story: Expanded Edition - Mur Lafferty

Rebel Rising - Beth Revis

Crimson Climb - E.K. Johnston

A New Dawn - John Jackson Miller

Jedi: Battle Scars - Sam Maggs

Lost Stars - Claudia Gray

Leia, Princess of Alderaan - Claudia Gray

Thrawn: Alliances - Timothy Zahn

Thrawn: Treason - Timothy Zahn

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story - Alexander Freed

Battlefront II: Inferno Squad - Christie Golden

Heir to the Jedi - Kevin Hearne

Doctor Aphra - Sarah Kuhn

Battlefront: Twilight Company - Alexander Freed

The Princess and the Scoundrel - Beth Revis

Alphabet Squadron - Alexander Freed

Aftermath - Chuck Wendig

Shadow Fall - Alexander Freed

Aftermath: Life Debt - Chuck Wendig

Victory's Price - Alexander Freed

Aftermath: Empire's End - Chuck Wendig

Last Shot - Daniel Jose Older

Poe Dameron: Free Fall - Alex Segura

Shadow of the Sith - Adam Christopher

Bloodline - Claudia Gray

Force Collector - Kevin Scinick

Phasma - Delilah S. Dawson

Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Alan Dean Foster

Galaxy's Edge: Black Spire - Delilah S. Dawson

Star Wars: The Last Jedi: Expanded Edition - Jason Fry

Resistance Reborn - Rebecca Roanhorse

A Crash of Fate - Zoraida Cordova

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker: Expanded Edition - Rae Carson

[paladin-of-nerd-fandom65]

Since it is a New Year, I feel some fresh reintroductions should be made for a particular favorite character of mine….

(Drawn as a commission by @haunting-clue)

Skybird, The Boy Wonder of Bludhaven

Civilian Name: Jakand'r/ Jacob ‘Jake’ Giovanni Thomas Grayson-Anders

- Tamaranean - Human Hybrid

-Personality: Shy when meeting new people and in large crowds which often makes him stick close to those he’s closest to at that instance, Loyal to Loved Ones and Friends, Determined in the Face of Danger, Kindhearted, Playfully, Looks Up to Robin with what the mantle stand for, Polite, Passionate about his favorite subjects and topics, Utterly shy to admit romantic feelings, Can Overlook some details if he’s being rushed or pressured to looking through a case at a fast pace, Stubborn when being confronted, Can Do Well with Homework as long as he stays focused on it, Has Some Capacity for Snark, Can be Quite Intimidating when In charge of Interrogation and Always Humble and Berating himself for any imperfections and failures no matter how small on his part.

- Age: 10 1/2 years of age

- Younger Brother to Mariand’r/ Mar’i Elizabeth Grayson, Son of Dick Grayson and Princess Koriand’r of the Planet Tamaran

- Best Friend of Chrstopher Grayson Kent aka Lor Zod-El

- Apprentice and Student of Timothy Jackson Drake-Wayne/Robin The Boy Wonder III

- Height: 5’2”

-Weight: 69 lbs

- Powerset and Abilites:

Acrobatics

Tamaranean Powerset (Boundless Confidence for Enhanced Strength, Righteous Fury for Starbolts,etc)

Master of Disguise

Advanced Detective

Escrima stick Martial Arts (kali)

3 ancient Tamaraean open palm martial arts

Black Belt Judo

Boxing (Out-Boxer style)

Forensics

Expert Hacker

Escapology

Intimidtaion

- Weaknesses:

Power Instability When Angered

Said Tamaranean Abilities are Half of the usual potential, the latter case demonstrated by Koriand’r and Mar’i

In relation, Standard Human Durability as opposed to Invulnerability

Prone to Human borne Illnesses and Diseases

[from-a-legends-pov]

Star Wars Legends: Poll of the Week — The Many Lives of Mara

One of the most popular characters to be developed for Star Wars Legends is Mara Jade, who first appeared in Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn trilogy. The character went through a number of journeys, both in her relationship with Luke Skywalker and in her own right, and over that time she had a number of professions. Which one of these Mara Jade professions is your favorite?

The Emperor’s Hand, a Dark-Side-wielding spy and assassin for the Empire, trained by Darth Vader and the Emperor

Hyperdrive mechanic, on the run from Isard and others after the fall of the Empire

Smuggler with Talon Karrde’s crew and later leading the Smugglers’ Alliance

Dancer in Jabba’s Palace (undercover as Arica, as part of her mission to kill Luke Skywalker)

Jedi Knight, and later, Jedi Master who took on Jaina Solo and Anakin Solo as her apprentices

Let’s create more Legends moments together! Follow @from-a-legends-pov and come join us for From a Legends Point of View, a fanfiction event where we’ll be building a collection of fics featuring Star Wars Legends characters (including OT characters) during the time of the Original Trilogy. Writer signups are open now through June 2 — use our Signup Form to pitch your story concepts (Signup Guidelines here), check out our Event Overview and FAQ for more information, and encourage your favorite writers to participate! Hope to have you join us.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Living His Word

Timothy, God has trusted you with many things. Keep these things safe. Stay away from people who talk about useless things that are not from God and who argue against you with a "knowledge" that is not knowledge at all. — 1 Timothy 6:20

The mentoring relationship between Paul and Timothy stands out like no other in Scripture. In his pastoral letters to his young disciple, the elder Paul never hesitates to refer to Timothy, his youthful brother in Christ, as a "true son to me in the faith we share" (1 Timothy 1:2). Under Paul's guidance, Timothy grew from young assistant, to apprentice, to full partner in the Gospel. In Paul's pastoral letters, he heaped generous servings of theological teaching, direction, and instructions on church-life order onto Timothy's plate. But he was always careful to season those servings with personal advice and fatherly care.

Timothy interned with Paul when he was an evangelist in residence in Corinth and Ephesus. He assisted Paul on his missionary journeys to Philippi, Berea, and Athens. Paul poured himself into Timothy. He nurtured him, reminded him, encouraged him, questioned him, warned him, and corrected him. Paul even writes about the comfort of Timothy's presence when he is alone in prison, abandoned by his coworkers.

Timothy's church elders in Lystra and his mother and grandmother had also been his intentional disciples. Paul clearly saw how God Himself trusted Timothy's use of spiritual gifts, trustworthy teachings, ethical behavior, and authoritative leadership. Paul trusted him too. He charged Timothy with the difficult tasks of bringing order to church communities plagued by harmful teachings and ungodly behavior. Paul encouraged Timothy to keep the investment of time, heart, and relationship safe that others had poured into him and to pass them on to others without abusing those investments.

Perhaps some of the best advice he gave his beloved Timothy was to simply stay away from people engaged in useless talk, who craft clever arguments based on false knowledge. In today's divisive atmosphere that even finds believers pitted against each other, Paul's advice is as useful as ever. Modern day followers of Jesus should stay away from useless arguments and guard the good that wise mentors and the Savior himself have poured into them.

Copyright© Bible League International

[dream-beyond-the-fantasy]

What are your essential Star Wars stories?

An open question for fellow Star Wars fans. Which Star Wars stories do you think are essential reading or viewing? It doesn't matter which era, continuity, or medium (film, book, comic, TV show). If it is an arc that encompasses more than one book, issue, or episode, tell us.

I would like to know your Top 5 to 10 favorite Star Wars stories.

I will tag a few people, but anyone can reply or tag others. I know opinions differ, but I am not interested in debate/discourse/fan wank. I want to foster recommendations for reading or viewing.

In my opinion, I consider the following essential:

Jedi Apprentice series by Dave Wolverton* and Jude Watson - a 20-book (18 plus 2 special editions) young reader series that depicts the relationship and early adventures of Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Master Qui-Gon Jinn. Introduces some great recurring characters (Siri, Tahl, Xanatos). Set between 44-40 BBY.

Darth Plagueis by James Luceno - a decades-spanning story of the titular Sith Lord, his relationship with apprentice Palpatine, and their dark plans. It ties together events from several previous Star Wars stories and also sets up events for later in the timeline. Set between 67-32 BBY.

The Thrawn Trilogy (Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command) by Timothy Zahn - one of the pieces of work that set the standard for the Star Wars Expanded Universe that followed beloved Classic Trilogy characters, introduced a variety of new characters (Mara, Thrawn, Jaina & Jacen), and is a good example of worldbuilding. Set in 9 ABY.

Revenge of the Sith novelization by Matthew Stover - an amazing novelization of one of my favorite films in the franchise. You get to explore the characters' thoughts. There are extra scenes, some of which were deleted from the film.

Legacy of the Jedi by Jude Watson - Decades-spanning book that revolves around a rivalry between Dooku and a childhood friend. We get four generations of Masters and Padawans. Well, sorta. Yoda is not actually Dooku's Master here, but still one of his teachers. One of the few works to delve into Dooku's past and his relationship with Qui-Gon. You can see Dooku's descent. As it is a Jude Watson book, it clearly ties into her Jedi Apprentice and Jedi Quest series. Set between 89-22 BBY.

New Jedi Order series - an epic 19 book series (not including the novellas and short stories) detailing a war between the New Republic and New Jedi Order against the Yuuzhan Vong. An emotional rollercoaster and rife with character development. Set in 25-29 ABY.

The Living Force - The only book that I've read thus far in the Disney Canon timeline. Basically, Qui-Gon is responsible for the Jedi Council getting off their asses Coruscant and helping the public on a planet where there was once a Jedi outpost. Also, pirate gangs unite to go after the Jedi. Lots of character moments for the Jedi Council, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan. Set in 33 BBY.

I think the first six Star Wars films are essential viewing, even though my favorites are going to be Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, Episode I: The Phantom Menace, and Episode III: Revenge of the Sith for various reasons.

Tagging @tempests-of-hope @shrinkthisviolet @thechaoticfanartist @tidela471

[ice-mage]

ICE MAGE READS 2024

This year, I joined a book club in an effort to read more actual books. I’ve always enjoyed reading, but over the past decade or so, I would only read a handful of books in any given year. Well, even though I didn’t read anything in the month of April, I’ve managed to read 26 books so far this year (and one I did not finish that I didn’t list below). I’m hoping to add a one or two more before the end of the year (while I’m visiting family over the holidays).

Full List (in the order I read them):

New Adult by Timothy Janovsky

The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins

The Parliament by Aimee Pokwatka

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Sun of Blood and Ruin by Mariely Lares

Ocean’s Godori by Elaine U. Cho

Wolfsong by TJ Klune

Ravensong by TJ Klune

Heartsong by TJ Klune

The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei

Surrender Your Sons by Adam Sass

Brothersong by TJ Klune

Dreadful by Caitlin Rozakis

Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Time’s Agent by Brenda Peynado

Apprentice to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

The Back Passage by James Lear

A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

The Secret Tunnel by James Lear

Sorcery and Small Magics by Maiga Doocy

A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

The Last Graduate by Naomi Novik

The Golden Enclaves by Naomi Novik

Godkiller by Hannah Kaner

The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch

Favorites

The Library at Mount Char: I don’t know what to say about this one other than that it’s wonderfully weird. A (sub)urban fantasy that begins with a murder mystery, with characters that would fit right into a horror movie, this book is fucked up in all the best ways. I don’t want to say too much about it because the way things are revealed throughout the book is one of the reasons I enjoyed it. Definitely give it a try.

Sorcery and Small Magics: A mixup with a forbidden spell results in Leovander Lovage being bound to obey his rival, Sebastian Grimm’s commands. Leo and Grimm endeavor to find a counterspell that can undo it and set Leo free again. This book is the beginning of an enemies/rivals to lovers tale. It is so expertly written, you’d be surprised to learn it’s the author’s debut novel. The book does a wonderful job at pacing; you get a great balance of character moments and plot. The magic system is intriguing, requiring two people, scrivers that write spells and casters that cast them. The magical creatures are imaginative. But what really grasped me was the evolution of the relationship between Leo and Grimm. I highly recommend you give this one a read.

Honorable Mentions

Heartsong: This is the story of Robbie Fontaine, my beloved. We learn about Robbie’s tragic backstory, and then get thrust into angst, angst, and more angst. It is my favorite book of the Green Creek series (I don’t care that Jon with his @bigassbowlingballhead has a different opinion). Given that this is third novel in a series, I don’t know what I can say about it without spoiling the first two books, so I’ll leave you with the author’s own words when this was rereleased earlier this year:

Ocean’s Godori: This is a cozy space opera set in a universe where Korea dominates space travel. I really liked all three main characters: Ocean Yoon, a space pilot; Teo Anand, second son to a tech empire; and Haven Sasani a Mortemian and a medic. The dynamic between parent and child is a theme of the book, and each of the three main characters have unique issues with their parents that shape them as characters. The relationship between all the characters, these three and the rest of the crew on the ship Ocean pilots, is a high point of the book. And the actual plot, once we get into it, is really interesting. Unfortunately, the book just ends suddenly. It doesn’t have an Act III, and I’m not sure it finished Act II. It’s like the publisher took Cho’s book and chopped it in half and only published the first part. It feels incomplete. That’s why I can’t recommend this book to anyone yet, at least not until the sequel, Teo’s Durumi, comes out in August 2025.

Most Disliked

Sun of Blood and Ruin: Seeing this book as the March pick was a big factor in me deciding to join my book club. The book promised to weave “Mesoamerican mythology and Mexican history two decades after the Spanish conquest into a swashbuckling, historical debut fantasy with magic, intrigue, treachery, and romance.” As someone of Mexican ancestry from all sides of my family, I was really excited to read this one. Boy, did it disappoint. The protagonist, Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin, is the half-indigenous daughter of the Spanish viceroy in Mexico. She is also La Pantera, a masked, magical vigilante. Although Leonora living a double life is a big part of her character arc, she is by far the worst at it, two other characters are introduced that do it far better than she does. One of those characters also does magic far better than she does. The writing is stodgy at best. And there’s a gay relationship thrown in that feels slapdash and inauthentic, like the author only inserted it because it’s the thing to do these days. This book is by far my least favorite book of the year, 0/10, do not recommend.

Dishonorable Mention

Time’s Agent: I’ll start by saying that this book was nowhere near as bad as the previous one. This book features pocket dimensions, or pocket worlds as they are called here, that people can enter from our own world. Only, these pocket worlds aren’t necessarily co-synchronous with our world. What feels like days in a pocket world could only be minutes in our world. And conversely, only seconds in the wrong pocket world could be decades in our world. Which is what happens to the main character. This book had a really intriguing premise, and seeing the main character work through her grief was interesting. Unfortunately, I think this book suffers from being a novella. The short length means the author doesn’t have room to really explore the pocket worlds or the other characters, meaning you end up not caring about either. If it had been twice as long, I think this could have been a really good book.

[notes-from-sarah]

Read This, Not That - Star Wars Edition

There's so many Star Wars books it can be hard to know where to start. Of course, you can just read everything if you want, but if you have limited time and can't decide between two similar titles here's my list of which ones are worthy of your time (and sometimes braincells). I make no distinction between Legends EU and New EU in this list because none of this stuff is one coherent continuity anyway (no matter what they tell you). Instead, I'm focusing on the characters and how good the stories are for that character. List is roughly in timeline order and divided by similar books about the same character.

Obi-Wan as a Padawan

Master and Apprentice by Claudia Gray > Padawan by Kiersten White

Anakin and Obi-Wan

The Approaching Storm by Alan Dean Foster > Brotherhood by Mike Chen

Obi-Wan on Tatooine

Kenobi by John Jackson Miller > Obi-Wan: A Jedi's Purpose by Christopher Cantwell (comic)

Kanan Jarrus

A New Dawn by John Jackson Miller > Kanan Omnibus by Greg Weisman (comic)

Grand Admiral Thrawn

Heir to the Empire by Timothy Zahn > Thrawn by Timothy Zahn

Han Solo

Scoundrels by Timothy Zahn > Honor Among Thieves by James S. A. Corey

Boba Fett

Blood Ties, vol 1-2 by Tom Taylor (comic) > The Mandalorian Armor by K. W. Jeter

Princess Leia

Tatooine Ghost by Troy Denning > Razor's Edge by Martha Wells

Luke Skywalker

Heir to the Jedi by Kevin Hearne > Splinter of the Mind's Eye by Alan Dean Foster

[intermundia]

Hey, I'm new to the Star Wars fandom here (TT) and I am an avid reader, can you suggest what books I should buy and in what order because u seem like a pretty well organized guy in terms of books, thanks (plz help, I will literally go broke if I buy them all, thanks)

welcome to star wars!!! 🫶 it's a hell of a mess but it's worth it haha i've been collecting for awhile, i have 173 of the novels (here's a link to an inventory spreadsheet if you're curious which ones), but there are almost four hundred available if you include all legends and extended universe in addition to disney canon. which is frankly too many lol

a useful book is the essential reader's companion by pablo hidalgo, which was published in 2012 and provides short summaries of all novels published before then, so you have a sense of what kind of books are available about the EU etc. it's good to have on hand to guide you through the absolute thicket that is legends haha

my personal area of interest is the prequels and obi-wan/anakin, so those are the books i really know the most about. the thrawn books by timothy zahn are notoriously pretty good for example, but i've only read one of them, and can't really comment on the rest. i've also only read one high republic book, light of the jedi by charles soule, which i adored, but can't comment on the rest of that era either.

my three very favorite sw books are:

revenge of the sith by matthew stover

darth plagueis by james luceno

rogue planet by greg bear

a selection of other ones i enjoyed:

padawan by kiersten white

wild space by karen miller

phantom menace by terry brooks

shatterpoint by matthew stover

labyrinth of evil by james luceno

dark lord: rise of darth vader by james luceno

lords of the sith by paul kemp

master and apprentice by claudia gray

dark disciple by christie golden

kenobi by john jackson miller

life and legend of obi-wan kenobi and the rise and fall of darth vader by ryder windham are two kids books that i really enjoyed

if you want to know comics (which are some of the best star wars media of all time) or my favorite nonfiction reference books let me know!!

also, a pro tip i guess is to check out ebay used book lots, people dump big piles of sw books all the time for relatively cheap and that can be a great way to jumpstart a collection without breaking the bank

[raghhhhhyperfixations]

But you were an owl!

(Silly au i made)

So imagine if Dick did get like kidnapped by the court of owls when he was a child and Bruce never saves him. (Like that one glimpse into the comic panel except THIS bruce is aware of the original timeline and it kills him and Dick is like actually pure evil and keeps succeeding in where Joker can’t.)

Dick has a habit of bending his ankles out abnormally to perch. He has a habit of batting at himself or punishing when he thinks he’s done something wrong.

And?

He always, always goes for the kill.

Bruce couldn’t have felt more guilt than ever knowing in another universe he saved this kid, some maybe universe alternate shenanigans, he SEES that dick is nightwing or robin and he saved him from this fate.

Instead he currently has the court of owls apprentice who hates his guts and wants him dead, who has pushed him off a cliff before, who would have ran into a street full of fear toxin then face him.

He hates himself for it.

He sees the lovely family he’s supposed to have, keyword supposed to and cringes everytime he sees how bad he messed up in this one.

Imagine if in this timeline he tries to save Jason because he sees him as robin in the other timeline but instead of Joker, Dick is the one to maim and kill him per order of the owls.

Because the bat is the enemy.

Imagine Jason coming back so angry, distraught that Bruce let him die only to have the alternative timeline revealed to him, only to see it’s the original one, only to learn was struggling to decide between hurting one son to save the other.

And damage their relationship forever, or let the other be killed. Jason is both mortified and disgusted at the fact that Dick is a hero in another world and his brother.

He’s ruined two sons.

Then comes along tim.

He’s aware this time, that tim is his son, or should be and yet he refuses Tim, so badly. He ignores him despite knowing young Tim’s fascination.

Yet the gods have a cruel way of laughing at him.

Because the owls finds him fascinating.

A young bird who wants to possess knowledge? from a family of wealth? He’s absolute perfect for an apprenticeship and then Bruce is too late, once again.

The owls have snatched another and Dick, oh so ever protective now has a baby bird in his nest, a Tim Drake who lets himself be fed all the lies and the manipulation.

But he cannot bring himself to kill.

A slight habit they’re working on.

And like clockwork comes along Barbara, she was never meant to be, she was late in this time, he learnt in the original timeline she was batgirl, an inspiration for girls around and women, she was absolutely awe inspiring.

And yet he watches as Dick lunges his sword into her spine and paralyses her forever.

His sorry will never not be enough.

He hesitantly accepts stephanie into his life with open arms, she’s not his daughter and never will be but she sure does act like he’s an old man whose just taken to any stray rat he can find.

She loves the robin.

It gives her freedom.

When she asks “where did Robin even come from? not exactly dark and edgy.” In her own words he can’t find the simplicity to say he stole it from the original Bruce and his son.

To remorse on what could have been him and his son, sure Dick’s parents might have died but he could have saved a boy and made him a wonder.

Yet that never happened here.

And bile fills his mouth as the Joker gets too close, putrid fills his veins and his heart as he watches Tim get close, Timothy drake who couldn’t kill before, shakily plunged a dagger into her heart and she died.

In his arms, the robin suit stained with blood as she made incoherent statements, gestures, trying to comprehend why he was so sorry, why he wasn’t more angry and all he could do was beg for someone to save her.

No doctors could in time, it nicked an artery, she was bleeding and bleeding fast, the shock was worse when she realised her life would end so young.

He’s, terrified.

When Duke comes along.

A boy with the powers of light surely must be a miracle? he must survive? No, not even the slightest, before he can dawn the ‘signal’ suit he plunges from a roof and disappears.

Bruce watches the original timeline with something heavy in his chest feeling cursed, why does that man get to be at least, happier?

No body was found but he has a feeling he’s dead anyway.

Then Damian is born, his son, Talia hands him over when he’s just a baby, her eyes aren’t full of fear but sharing secrets they both know, in both universes he’ll become robin, in one he might die.

So Bruce protects him, he sleeps by his crib at night awaiting the devils to take him.

He bites at his nails and loses sight of himself.

But it’s okay as long as he has his son.

He babyproofs the manor which is NOT easy, god he complains to alfred a million times, he has to strengthen the chains on the chandeliers and get them higher.

(He sees in the original timeline Dick climbing on them, swinging and breaking one and his heart mourns for a little boy who could have been his son)

He puts baby gates everywhere on the stairs and he means everywhere, alfred thought he was overdoing it but he was strict.

Talia comes, once, he pretends not to notice but her eyes are full of remiss wanting to see her son so he pretends to sleep a bit more as she opens a window, slips in and hugs her baby tight.

It’s alright.

They can both tell themselves.

It’s alright.

The owls can watch and bide their time but this time he would succeed in protecting his son, he wouldn’t let him die or be taken away and when he sees the angry face upset at him for opening the door too loud, he finds it all worth the wait.