Aegis - Location Bible (Part II)
The Seraphim, The Lunaris Spire, and the Great Lie
In crafting the concept of the Shepard's Tone, I aimed to delve into the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and the progression of time, intertwining major themes such as religion, political sway, and military prowess, which not only form the bedrock of human societies but possess the power to reshape them profoundly. Furthermore, I sought to explore the core of human identity, delving into the distinctive traits that fuel our endurance and distinguish us from artificial entities. In essence, I wanted to capture what truly defines our humanity in contrast to AI.
In this edition of The Brief, I delve into the experience of collaborating with ChatGPT, expanding upon pre-established themes and foundational concepts I devised. This experiment aims to evaluate the dynamics of having ChatGPT as a writing collaborator rather than the creator.
This is what I started with (e.g. what I wrote myself) Spoiler ALERT! there is a lot revealed in this issue.
The Great War and the Rise of Serak
Centuries ago, the Great War arose, leaving an indelible mark on history. According to the Seraphim's archives, roughly 10,000 years have passed since this devastating epoch. The war's inception was the advent of AI, which initially served as a potent ally to mankind, augmenting their productivity. However, in time, numerous AIs surfaced, each armed with distinct training data, perspectives, and interpretations of history, science, and trust. They catered to individual inclinations, beliefs, and biases, fragmenting truth and historical accuracy. Events like the splitting of the atomic, the moon landing, and the Holocaust shifted from concrete facts to mere beliefs. This schism paved the way for societal discord and the obscuring of genuine events. Ultimately, the rifts led to widespread strife, climaxing in a nuclear catastrophe that claimed billions, rendering vast regions uninhabitable, and instigating a total climate breakdown. As the planet scorched and seas dissipated, humanity took refuge for centuries until parts of the Earth became livable again. The survivors, drastically reduced in numbers, grappled with a challenging era of chaos and hardship.
A time when hope was hunted.
Eventually, societal structures began to re-emerge, with tribes forming as a natural response to the chaos. Within one such tribe that would later found Aegis, Serak emerged as a visionary. Recognizing the power of unified belief, Serak founded Lunarism. While not personally believing in a divine entity, he understood the potency of organized faith and historical narrative - in other words, he understood the power of a lie. Proclaiming himself as a divine messenger, he penned "The Testament," a seven-book doctrine positioning the Seraphim—his twelve chosen disciples—as the gatekeepers of knowledge. Within these texts, he emphasized the evils of AI and positioned Aegis as the last bastion of humanity.
He also established the 5 Laws of the Seraphim: to break any is to die.
There is only one religion - Lunarism
The Seraphim are truth, the law, and holders of knowledge
Aegis is the only humanity left on Earth
Technology, as defined by the Seraphim, is sin
Do not venture into the Wastelands
For the violators, the mythical beast Ovakar (a genetically mutated monster created by the Seraphim) from the Ozkalgun Pits is the final judgment. Over the millennia, the Seraphim consolidated their influence, holding sway over various domains of knowledge.
All the while, unbeknownst to Aegis's citizens, the Seraphim executed a lie - they covertly advanced their own technological prowess while forbidding it to its worshipers. Hidden within their monumental library, they perfected gene-editing, human-AI interfaces, and other technologies, leading to their present godlike stature.
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Now let’s use AI to help us expand this narrative to describe where they live - e.g. their location bible.
After pre-loading ChatGPT with the history of The Great War and the history and the great lie of the Seraphim and its founder Serak, I put in the following prompt - (e.g. I defined the basics of this location, but I used ChatGPT to quickly expand out my basic concepts.
Write me a detailed paragraph about the structure in which the Seraphim live - the great library of Aegis called the Luminar Spire. What is the name of the structure, what is it made out of, how is it built to withstand time, weather, and war. Write a detailed paragraph about the grand entrance and the room of gathering - which is the place where the 12 disciples gather to hold court and make decisions. In 12 separate, detailed paragraphs, describe, but do not name, each of the 12 floors of the Spire and tie purpose of each floor to each of the 12 disciples. Name the disciple that inhabits each floor. Make each floor mythical, interesting, and full of mysterious artifacts related to each of the disciples specialties. In a separate detailed paragraph describe the outside appearance of the Luminar Spire. How tall is the library (it should soar into the sky). Describe that the top of the largest spire is a device that can emanate a sound that can be heard for 100 miles - it is called the Shepard’s Tone, and it is a call to prayer - and as we will find out it is also a call to war. In a separate detailed paragraph describe that the Luminar Spire also has a crypt, which contains secretes, the sarcophagus of Serak, and the truth behind the religion of the Seraphim. It is guarded by a two genetically modified monster Dire Wolves. Describe the crypt in great detail - it is full of horrors, a collection of failed genetic experiments and an ominous machine, that hums with power - the AI brain of the Seraphim (name the AI something ominous).
Luminar Spire
The Luminar Spire, often termed as the "Pinnacle of Aegis," wasn't just constructed overnight. Serak, understanding the importance of a monumental repository for the future, began its construction a mere decade after his epiphany. Envisioning a structure that would stand through eons, he consulted with the finest architects and masons of the time. These talented individuals were sourced from every corner of the recovering world, each bringing their unique expertise to the project.
The Spire was meticulously crafted from the rare and indestructible Lumina stone, mined from the very depths of the distant Luminalis Mountains. These stones weren't just chosen for their resilience; they possess a silvery sheen that reflects light in a way that makes the Spire appear as if it's glowing during the day and shimmering under the moonlight. The construction process was laborious. Under Serak's direction, a vast labor force, comprising thousands of devoted followers and skilled craftsmen, toiled day and night. Their faith in Serak's vision fueled their dedication, allowing the completion of this mammoth structure in a span of fifty years.
Stretching an impressive 1,200 feet into the sky, the Luminar Spire is both imposing and awe-inspiring. Its vastness can be felt even from miles away, and its intricate design, which features tiered layers, flying buttresses, and delicate spires that magically withstand the strongest dust storms showcases the architectural genius of the era. Upon closer inspection, one can discern the countless intricate engravings, each telling tales of ancient lore, prophecies, and the wisdom Serak wished to preserve.
Gazing upon the Spire invokes a mixture of emotions: reverence for the vast knowledge it houses, awe at its grandeur, and a humbling realization of one's place in the vast timeline of history. The entrance to this behemoth is guarded by towering double doors, crafted from bronze and infused with Lumina stone fragments, causing them to glimmer in an otherworldly manner. These doors are engraved with cryptic symbols and markings, rumored to be magical in nature. They stand as silent sentinels, allowing only the chosen Seraphim to cross the threshold and access the sanctum within. For others, the doors serve as a reminder that the knowledge within is both a privilege and a responsibility, not to be taken lightly.
The Celestial Hall: Heart of the Lunaris Spire
The Room of Gathering, more reverently known as the "Celestial Hall," is more than just an assembly point for the 12 disciples; it's the very heart of the Lunaris Spire and, by extension, the spiritual and political heart of Aegis. Historically, this chamber has borne witness to myriad events that have shaped the trajectory of Aegis. From the ratification of significant laws to the anointing of new Seraphim, its importance in the annals of history is unparalleled.
The Celestial Hall's design is heavily influenced by the architectural style of ancient basilicas, yet it has a unique touch that is quintessentially Aegis. The vastness of the chamber reflects the expanse of the sky, reminding everyone of the infinite wisdom of the Seraphim. Its walls, made from luminescent marble, are engraved with tales of the creation of Aegis, the rise of Serak, and the divine intervention of the Seraphim. These tales are not merely decorative; they serve as a reminder of the founding principles of the realm and the divine mandate of the Seraphim.
One cannot ignore the grandeur of the celestial paintings that grace the dome-shaped ceiling. Crafted by the renowned artist Elandrial, these paintings depict a harmonious dance between the stars, planets, and cosmic entities. They chronicle the narrative of the universe's creation, the birth of Aegis, and the eternal guidance of the Seraphim. The central piece showcases Serak, arms outstretched, receiving the divine knowledge that would lead to the establishment of Aegis.
Directly beneath this celestial dance, the massive sapphire table stands as a symbol of unity and transparency. It is said that the table was crafted from a single gem extracted from the Caelum Mines, representing the pure essence of Aegis's spirit.
Once a year, on the Day of Luminance, the Seraphim open the Celestial Hall to the public. This day marks the moment Serak received his vision for Aegis. Citizens from every district gather, turning the hall into a sea of reverence and festivity. Choirs sing age-old hymns, the stories of Aegis are retold, and the Seraphim themselves perform a ceremonial dance around the sapphire table, recreating the moment when the twelve first convened. The Day of Luminance serves not just as a religious observance, but as a testament to the bond between the Seraphim and the people of Aegis.
First Floor - Domain of Azrael
Azrael - Guardian of History and the Leader of the Seraphim: Tall, with ebony skin, a long beard, and deep-set eyes. Marked with tattoos of ancient scripts. Strength: Memorization; Weakness: Obsession with details.
Upon entering Azrael's floor of the Lunaris Spire, a breathtaking expanse of meticulously organized historical artifacts and timelines immediately unfolds before the eyes. Walls, etched in shimmering gold, are adorned with ancient maps and illustrations charting the lineage of past civilizations. Vast mahogany bookshelves, reaching from floor to ceiling, are filled with leather-bound tomes, each detailing a specific epoch, with some so ancient their pages seem almost translucent. Interspersed among the books are relics: jade ink pots, quills sourced from mythical creatures, and hourglasses encapsulating sands from significant historical events. The air is thick with the scent of old parchment, cedarwood, and a faint, comforting undertone of sage, reminiscent of the wisdom Azrael embodies. In the center, a grand obsidian table sits, where Azrael, with his deep-set eyes and tattoos of ancient scripts dancing across his ebony skin, often immerses himself in chronicling history's finer details. His obsession with minutiae is evident in the careful annotations that grace many documents. But beyond the tangible, whispers circulate about hidden compartments within the shelves, safeguarding truths so profound they could reshape one's understanding of existence. Only Azrael, with his unparalleled memorization skills, truly fathoms the depths of secrets this sanctum holds.
Second Floor - Abode of Caelum
Caelum - Keeper of Astronomy: Lithe, silver-eyed with constellation tattoos. Strength: Predicting celestial events; Weakness: Fear of darkness.
Stepping onto Caelum's floor of the Lunaris Spire is akin to voyaging through a cosmic tapestry suspended in time. The vast expanse of the floor seems to encapsulate the universe itself, with a domed ceiling that portrays an ever-shifting map of the stars, galaxies, and nebulae, all in their mesmerizing luminescence. The walls are adorned with intricate murals, telling tales of celestial phenomena and their significance in the course of history. Strategically placed telescopes of varying sizes and designs, all crafted with an exquisite blend of art and science, offer intimate glimpses of distant stars and planets. Amidst the observatory equipment, one can't help but be drawn to Caelum's figure. His lithe form moves gracefully among the tools of his trade, his silver eyes reflecting the very stars he so loves, while the constellation tattoos on his skin seem to pulse with a life of their own, mapping out celestial prophecies. The air is subtly tinged with the aroma of myrrh, invoking a sense of reverence for the vast expanse above. But amidst this astral wonder, there lies an unexpected paradox. Hidden alcoves are equipped with a plethora of artificial lights, providing sanctuaries of illumination. It's whispered that these are Caelum's havens, for his fear of darkness is the antithesis to his celestial prowess, reminding all that even the most enlightened have their shadows.
Third Floor - Chamber of Elandor
Elendor - Protector of Mathematics: Stout, bald, geometric tattoos on his arms. Strength: Calculation; Weakness: Over-reliance on logic.
Elendor's domain within the Lunaris Spire stands as a testament to the beauty of order and precision. The very floor tiles are set in an elaborate, interlocking mosaic of geometric patterns, seemingly endless in their permutations. Vast blackboards, chalked with equations, span the walls, their content changing frequently as Elendor continuously challenges and refines mathematical theorems. Amidst the elegant patterns and sequences, bronze polyhedra and other geometric sculptures are meticulously placed, casting multifaceted shadows that dance in tandem with the room's ambient candlelight. At the center stands a grand desk, overflowing with ancient scrolls and modern blueprints alike, each bearing witness to Elendor's tireless work in the realm of numbers. His stout figure, bald head gleaming, moves with a deliberate grace, the geometric tattoos on his arms coming alive as he gestures, each shape telling a tale of mathematical marvels discovered. A scent reminiscent of old books and freshly sharpened pencils permeates the air, invoking a sense of academic reverence. Yet, for all its glory, there's an underlying rigidity to this floor. Hidden compartments hold treatises on theories once deemed impossible or irrational, dismissed by Elendor's unwavering logic. Whispers among visitors speak of his occasional struggles to embrace the unpredictable, a stark reminder that pure logic, while powerful, has its limits in a universe full of uncertainties.
Fourth Floor - Sanctum of Orial
Orial - Curator of Biology: Lean, green-eyed with a DNA helix tattoo on her spine. Strength: Healing; Weakness: Empathy to a fault.
Orial's sanctum within the Lunaris Spire is a vibrant, living tapestry of biology. A sprawling biome of its own, the room pulses with life, from lush verdant plants that grow and twist in patterns that mimic DNA strands, to intricate ecosystems that reside in elaborate terrariums, each representing a different corner of the world. The very walls seem alive, covered in creeping vines and mosses, interspersed with displays of preserved specimens, both flora and fauna, that offer a glimpse into the complexities of life on Earth. In one corner, a bubbling fountain serves as a habitat for amphibians and aquatic plants, the water's sound soothing and reminiscent of nature's heartbeat. Amidst this explosion of life, Orial moves with grace, her lean form accentuated by her flowing garments, and her green eyes observing every tiny detail. Often, she can be seen bent over a microscope, exploring the microscopic wonders of biology or tending to a wounded creature, her DNA helix tattoo glowing faintly with each movement. The air in the room is thick with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, combined with the earthy aroma of damp soil. Yet, there's an undertone of melancholy here. Hidden away in secluded corners are reminders of extinct species, a testament to Orial's deep empathy. There are tales of her spending days, even weeks, mourning the loss of a single creature, a reflection of her incredible compassion but also her vulnerability. Her unyielding empathy, while a gift, has often been a double-edged sword, causing her immense pain in a world where loss is an inevitable part of the cycle of life.
Fifth Floor - Lair of Cymra
Cymra - Guardian of Physics: Muscular, glowing golden tattoos. Strength: Manipulating physical properties; Weakness: Arrogance.
Cymra's domain within the Lunaris Spire is a breathtaking symphony of physical phenomena. As one steps onto the floor, they're greeted by levitating platforms, defying gravity, that can be walked upon as if they were solid ground. Brilliant displays of light, both natural and artificially created, dance across the walls, refracting through prisms and casting an array of mesmerizing patterns. Large orbs filled with liquids of varying densities float, showcasing the intricacies of fluid dynamics as they ebb and swirl in response to invisible forces. In the center stands a colossal pendulum, its rhythmic swing demonstrating the relentless march of time and the constants of the universe. The air is thick with the faint metallic tang of ozone, a byproduct of the various electrical experiments conducted in various corners of the floor. Arrays of golden tattoos glow on Cymra's well-defined muscles, becoming more luminescent whenever she exercises her power to manipulate the physical properties around her. However, amidst this wonder, Cymra's arrogance is palpable. In one secluded corner lies a shattered mirror, a stark reminder of an experiment gone awry due to her overconfidence. Whispers among the other guardians suggest that hidden deep within this realm is a portal, a manipulation of space-time that Cymra once attempted to control, only to be humbled by its vastness and unpredictability. Yet, her relentless pursuit of mastering the very fabric of the universe continues, driven by a confidence that often teeters on the brink of hubris.
Sixth Floor - Den of Halon
Halon - Muse of Arts: Graceful, colorful patterns etched on her face. Strength: Inspiring creativity; Weakness: Emotional vulnerability.
Halon's sanctum within the Lunaris Spire is a mesmerizing canvas of color, sound, and movement, embodying the very essence of artistic expression. As visitors step onto the floor, their senses are immediately caressed by an ambient melody, composed of countless instruments from different eras, some familiar and others exotically alien. The walls, draped in rich, velvety tapestries, shimmer with a life of their own, each telling a story through animated paintings that change and evolve with the viewer's emotions. At the center, a grand, crystal-clear fountain brimming with luminescent ink dances and swirls, reflecting myriad hues around the room. Easels, brushes, and palettes lie scattered, each bearing remnants of Halon's latest inspirations. The air is heady with the combined aromas of paint, clay, and ancient parchments, transporting visitors to art studios of epochs past. Halon herself, with colorful patterns gracefully etched across her delicate face, often immerses herself in her work, deeply connected to every stroke and note, her emotions flowing raw and untamed. But hidden behind a grand curtain in a secluded corner is a canvas, always blank, representing her emotional vulnerability. Legends whisper of its ability to capture the essence of one's soul, yet Halon, in her moments of profound emotion, has never been able to leave a mark upon it, a testament to the depths of her feelings and the double-edged sword of her unparalleled creativity.
Seventh Floor - Bastion of Verin
Verin - Sentinel of Geology: Broad, with rock-like skin and mountainous tattoos. Strength: Understanding of Earth's secrets; Weakness: Stubbornness.
Verin's dominion within the Lunaris Spire is akin to stepping into the very core of the Earth, a cavernous expanse that mirrors the planet's geological wonders. The floor, a shifting mosaic of marbles, granites, and sparkling gemstones, feels alive underfoot, subtly pulsating in tune with the heartbeats of the planet's tectonic rhythms. Massive columns reminiscent of ancient stalagmites and stalactites rise to meet overhead, adorned with shimmering minerals that reflect a prismatic dance of colors. Displayed prominently are intricate models of various landforms, from grand canyons to sprawling mountain ranges, each meticulously crafted to reveal Earth's geological timeline. Tucked amidst these wonders are ancient fossils, sedimentary records, and magma samples, treasures that tell tales of epochs gone by. The scent of wet stone mingles with that of molten rock, enveloping the floor in a comforting embrace reminiscent of nature's raw power. In a secluded alcove, a massive, ever-shifting crystal pulsates, believed to be the repository of Earth's deepest secrets, accessible only by Verin. His mountainous tattoos seem to shift and change as he moves, a visual testament to his deep connection with the land. Yet, for all his vast knowledge, Verin's stubbornness often keeps him rooted, sometimes preventing the evolution of his ideas, making his domain both a testament to the wonders of geology and a reflection of his unyielding nature.
Eighth Floor - Refuge of Lysa
Lysa - Keeper of Meteorology: Elusive, cloud tattoos that seem to move. Strength: Predicting weather patterns; Weakness: Inconsistency.
Lysa's floor within the Lunaris Spire is like stepping into the ever-changing realm of the skies above. The ceiling, a vast expanse of ethereal beauty, shifts in hues, mimicking the daytime's azure and the twilight's deep purples, interspersed with shimmering stars. The floor, appearing as a soft blanket of clouds, releases gentle mists at intervals, giving a feeling of walking amidst the heavens. Scattered throughout are intricate apparatuses: barometers, anemometers, and weather vanes of exquisite craftsmanship, each pulsating with an aura of prediction and purpose. Grand globes display real-time meteorological events, from cyclones swirling in oceans to sandstorms blanketing deserts. The scent here is a delicate mix of rain on fresh soil and the invigorating chill of an approaching storm. In the center stands a vast, clear column filled with swirling vapors representing various weather patterns, an interactive testament to Lysa's mastery. Her cloud tattoos dance in tune with the ambiance, constantly changing, mirroring the unpredictable nature of the weather itself. Yet, there lies a whisper among the winds: that within a hidden chamber lies the Sphere of Seasons, a device said to control weather patterns on a larger scale. Lysa's prowess, while magnificent, carries the touch of inconsistency, akin to a sudden rainstorm on a clear day, making her domain both a sanctuary of meteorological wonders and a testament to the fickle nature of the weather.
Ninth Floor - Atrium of Phalar
Phalar - Protector of Philosophy: Aged, with thinker's pose tattoo on his chest. Strength: Wisdom; Weakness: Overthinking.
Phalar's floor within the Lunaris Spire is a vast expanse of serenity, mirroring the introspective realm of philosophical thought. The flooring resembles ancient parchment, with beautifully inked philosophical doctrines from various civilizations interspersed with golden geometric patterns. Bookshelves, as tall as the eye can see, stretch towards the ceiling, filled with tomes, scrolls, and manuscripts of profound thinkers from all eras and cultures. Strategically placed are comfortable seating areas with plush chairs and tables, encouraging contemplation and discourse. The atmosphere is imbued with the subtle scent of aged paper, leather-bound books, and the faintest hint of sandalwood, invoking an aura of intellectual reverence. Strategically placed mirrors cast reflections, but with a twist: they display not the external appearance of the viewer but rather manifestations of their innermost thoughts, doubts, and beliefs. In the heart of the floor stands a life-sized statue of Phalar himself, captured in the iconic thinker's pose, the very same that's tattooed on his chest. As legend has it, in a concealed corner of this domain lies the Orb of Ethos, a crystalline sphere said to contain the combined wisdom of all past, present, and future philosophers. However, its location remains a mystery, perhaps an intentional design by Phalar, challenging seekers to go beyond surface-level inquiry and dive deep into the labyrinth of their own thoughts. The ambiance of this floor is tranquil, yet it carries an undercurrent of ceaseless questioning and pursuit of truth, epitomizing Phalar's eternal quest for wisdom and his tendency to get lost in the maze of overthinking.
Tenth Floor - Vault of Nyra
Nyra - Guardian of Technology: Sleek, circuitry tattoos glowing under his skin. Strength: Technological integration; Weakness: Over-dependence on machines.
Nyra's domain within the Lunaris Spire is a testament to the harmonious fusion of advanced technology and classical architecture. Upon entering, one is greeted by a sprawling expanse of reflective black flooring, giving the illusion of walking on an infinite digital void. Floating holographic displays hover at eye-level, showcasing interactive diagrams, real-time data streams, and simulations of technological innovations from multiple epochs. Interspersed throughout the area are nodes of translucent crystal, each pulsating with multi-colored lights, serving as interfaces for accessing the vast digital archives stored within. The walls are adorned with sleek metal panels with embedded LED patterns that shift and change, reflecting the dynamic nature of technology. The scent in the air is clean and sterile, with a slight tang reminiscent of freshly soldered circuits. Throughout the room, drones with iridescent wings flit about, performing maintenance and acting as guides for visitors. At the center stands a magnificent sculpture of Nyra, every inch of it meticulously crafted from a blend of precious metals and rare earth elements. His circuitry tattoos, replicated with uncanny accuracy, shimmer and glow with a life of their own, illuminating the surrounding space. However, a deeper secret lies embedded within the walls of this floor. Rumors whisper of a hidden chamber, accessible only to those well-versed in the ancient codes and ciphers. Within, it's said, resides the a secret door that leads to The Dark Nexus Core, an artifact that encapsulates the very essence of all technological knowledge. But accessing it isn't simple, for its defenses are many, reflecting Nyra's dependence on, and perhaps his vulnerability to, the very machines he cherishes.
Eleventh Floor - Hearth of Solan
Solan - Curator of Medicine: Petite, with an anatomical heart tattoo on her wrist. Strength: Healing; Weakness: Sensitivity to pain.
Solan's sanctuary within the Lunaris Spire is a harmonious blend of ancient apothecary and modern medical marvel. Upon entering, one is met with the gentle scent of medicinal herbs hanging in the air, a soothing aroma reminiscent of chamomile, lavender, and eucalyptus. The floor, crafted from pale marble, is inlaid with intricate mosaics depicting the journey of medicine through the ages, from herbal remedies to breakthrough surgeries. Glass cabinets line the walls, showcasing an array of tools and equipment, both old and new: hand-carved wooden pestles and mortars sit alongside state-of-the-art diagnostic devices and holographic displays. Gentle ambient music, specifically designed to promote healing and calm, hums softly in the background. The centerpiece of this healing haven is a shimmering pool filled with therapeutic mineral waters known for their regenerative properties. Flanking this pool are rows of plush recliners where individuals can relax and soak in the ambiance. In one corner, a lifelike statue of Solan can be found, her delicate features capturing a look of profound empathy, her tattooed wrist prominently displayed. Despite the tranquility, the floor holds secrets. Behind a hidden door activated by the touch of one truly in need, lies a chamber where the most potent remedies and cures are stored. It's whispered that within this chamber, Solan has a relic that can heal any ailment, but its use comes at a cost, reflecting her own sensitivity to the pain she alleviates.
Twelfth Floor - Observatory of Altara
Chronos - Sentinel of Time: Wrinkled, with a sandglass tattoo on his back. Strength: Understanding time's flow; Weakness: Fear of the future.
Chronos' dominion within the Lunaris Spire is a temporal tapestry, an intricate blend of the past, present, and future. Upon stepping onto this floor, one feels a subtle shift, as if walking through different epochs simultaneously. The air is thick with the nostalgic scent of old parchment and freshly turned earth, evoking memories of days long past. The room is dimly lit by a myriad of floating orbs that cast a soft, golden hue, each orb seemingly holding a moment in time within its luminous core. Against one wall stands a vast and ornate grandfather clock, its hands moving in a seemingly erratic fashion, yet with purpose, never truly adhering to the conventions of linear time. Around the room, various artifacts from different ages are displayed: an ancient sundial, a mid-century pocket watch, a futuristic holographic timepiece. These instruments, while from disparate eras, all bear testament to humanity's obsession with time. In the center, a large pool filled with silvery liquid offers a reflection, but not one's current visage; instead, it displays moments from one's past or potential future. The sandglass tattoo on Chronos' back is said to be the source of his power and the floor's temporal distortions. But behind a curtain of time, hidden from plain sight, is a library of moments. Each book within it captures a single instance in time, and Chronos, despite his vast knowledge and understanding, fears to open the one that details the future's uncertain path. His anxiety is palpable, creating an undercurrent of tension that belies the room's otherwise serene demeanor.
The Shepard’s Tone Bell
Atop the Luminar Spire, the Shepard’s Tone Bell stands as a testament to the paradoxical genius of the Seraphim. Crafted from advanced polymers and resonant alloys, both proprietary creations of Seraphim ingenuity, the bell contradicts its very existence. These materials, gleaming with iridescent colors, were born from the very technology that their faith decried as heresy. Yet, their unparalleled acoustic properties give the bell its haunting tonality. When activated, it releases a Shepard's Tone - an ever-ascending, ethereal sound that seems to infinitely climb, touching the very essence of those who hear it, vibrating deep within, merging the tangible and intangible. Beyond its sound, the bell serves a dual purpose: as a unifying call to prayer and reflection, uniting the Seraphim in harmonious introspection, and as an ominous alarm signaling looming threats. The irony of its construction is not lost to the few who know its true origin: that in seeking protection and unity, the Seraphim harnessed and embraced the very sin their doctrines warned against, revealing the blurred lines between faith and necessity.
The Crypt of Serak and The Dark Nexus
Tucked beneath the shadow of the Luminar Spire, the Crypt of Serak is a chilling descent into history and horror. Its arched entryway, framed in tarnished silver, gives way to a vast expanse of cold stone floors and walls dripping with moss and condensation. As you step over the threshold, a metallic taste, akin to blood, invades your mouth, while the acrid scent of mold and the sterile coldness of long-sealed chambers assail your nostrils. The barely audible hum of The Dark Nexus resonates in the distance, a low-frequency vibration that one can feel deep in their bones, setting nerves on edge. On either side of the entrance, the formidable Dire Wolves stand guard, their genetically-engineered eyes scanning for intruders with a ferocity that's palpable. Along the winding passageways, ghastly visages of failed genetic undertakings peer out from behind thick glass enclosures, a grim testament to the lengths the Seraphim went in their quest for advancement. The heart of the crypt houses the ornate sarcophagus of Serak, set on a raised dais, its surroundings lit only by the unsettling, pulsating glow from The Dark Nexus. This AI, contained within a crystalline prism, casts shadows that seem to dance and writhe on the walls, each movement stirring feelings of trepidation and awe. The atmosphere in the Crypt of Serak is one of reverence and dread, a stark reminder of the Seraphim's pursuit of power and the costs of their ambition.
That’s all for now… tomorrow we go beneath Aegis to a long forgotten world from the past.
What is The Brief and Who should read it?
I release a weekly digest every Friday, tailored for professionals ranging from executives to writers, directors, cinematographers, editors, and anyone actively involved in the film and television domain. This briefing offers a comprehensive yet accessible perspective on the convergence of technology and its implications for the movie and TV industry. It serves as an efficient gateway to understanding the nexus between Hollywood and Silicon Valley.
Who am I?
I'm Steve Newcomb. Functionally, I’m a recovering Silicon Valley founder that is finally old enough to have a bit of care. I’m perhaps most recognized for founding Powerset— it was the largest AI and machine learning project in the world when I founded it. It was later acquired by Microsoft and transformed into something you might recognize today - Microsoft Bing. Beyond Bing, I had the privilege of being on the pioneering team that witnessed the inaugural email sent via a mobile device. My journey also led me to SRI (Stanford Research Institute), where we laid the groundwork for contemporary speech recognition technology. Additionally, I was a co-founder of the debut company to introduce a 3D physics engine in Javascript. I've held positions on the board of directors and contributed funding to massive open source initiatives like NodeJS and even the largest such project, jQuery. My experience extends to academia, having been a senior fellow at the University of California, Berkeley's engineering and business faculties. Recently, I ventured into Layer 2 internet protocols and assisted a company named Matter Labs in securing $440 million in funding to bolster their endeavors.
What am I doing besides writing these posts?
Typically, I allocate a year between groundbreaking ventures. My exploration for the upcoming project commenced in May 2023, and the sole certainty is its nexus with the film, television, SMURF, and AI domains. Sharing insights on my research endeavors helps me discern between feasible prospects and mere illusions. My hope is that for this venture, I appropriately consider the ethical and sociological repercussions.
If you are interested in contacting me, being interviewed, being helped, or yelling at me, my email is steve.e.newcomb@gmail.com.