Completing Scene 18

Tyhry and her replicoid copy.
Image by WOMBO Dream.

Below on this page is my continuing experiment with Gemini Advanced. Can Gemini be a useful collaborator in completing my science fiction story "The Nanite Smuggler"? 

Also on this blog page are some AI-generated images that were made in 2026 when I re-formatted this blog page to adjust font sizes.

Early in 2024, Gemini was severely constrained by a small context window that did not permit the LLM to remember a long story. I started a new chat session with Gemini Advanced and provided the information (including short summaries of the first 17 scenes of the story) that is shown in my previous blog post.

Me: Gemini, read and process the provided summaries of scenes 1-17.

Gemini: OK, I've processed all the summaries. That's quite an intricate plot you've got going on, with replicoids, secret missions, and nanite smuggling! Here's where I think we can pick up in Scene 18:

Scene 18 (Beginning):

• Location: Tyhry's ninite research lab, within the Ekcolir Reality Simulation

• Characters: Tyhry, the newly created Tyhry replicoid, Marda, Anthony.

The Moment of Crisis: The Tyhry replicoid has injected herself with the zeptites as part of the experiment. Something goes terribly wrong. Tyhry's eyes widen in horror as the replicoid convulses, her body twisting in unnatural ways. Marda and Anthony rush towards her, struggling to determine what's happening.

Possible Directions:

Tyhry by WOMBO Dream.

Here's where we need to build the suspense and set up the next stage of the story. Consider these options along with your own ideas:

• The Zeptite Malfunction: The zeptites aren't interacting with the replicoid as intended. Instead of granting Tyhry control, they're merging with the replicoid, creating a new, unpredictable entity – possibly malevolent.

• This could lead to a battle for control within the replicoid's mind, with Tyhry wrestling against a new zeptite-driven consciousness.

• The Unforeseen Side Effect: The zeptites weren't meant for human biology. They trigger a transformation, either physically or mentally, in the replicoid.

• This change could be something monstrous, or potentially something that grants the replicoid incredible new abilities – abilities that could either help Tyhry or completely derail her plans.

• The Phari Connection: The zeptites weren't just deactivation tools. Perhaps they contain some hidden Phari technology meant to communicate with the Hierion Domain, but it activates unexpectedly in the replicoid.

• This could draw unwanted attention from the Phari, putting Tyhry in their crosshairs or opening a dangerous portal. The replicoid might become a conduit for strange and powerful entities.

 

Some Additional Thoughts:

• Tyhry's Obsession: Play up Tyhry's inner conflict. Her ambition is clashing with the risks she's taken. Show her fear and desperation as things spiral out of control.

• Marda and Anthony's Reactions: How far are they willing to go to support Tyhry? Will this incident force them to question their loyalty?

• Don't Forget Manny: Even if she's not physically present, Manny's shadow looms large. How might she sense this disruption through her own zeptite connections? Perhaps she intervenes, adding to the chaos.<

Let's Discuss! Which direction intrigues you the most? Are there other possibilities we haven't considered?

Me:  Gemini, based on the first 17 scenes of “The Nanite Smuggler” and the provided text of the first part of scene 18, what do you think will happen next in scene 18 of the story?

Gemini: Absolutely! Here's my take on how we can continue Scene 18, aiming to move things towards your planned Scene 19 where F. Tyhry begins working on modifying the Reality Viewer on Tar'tron. I've focused on these elements:

• Hypatia's Surprise and Disorientation: We need to capitalize on the shock of Hypatia's arrival and her questions about Manny.

• The Rapid Pregnancy: Zeta's rapidly progressing pregnancy should be a source of both awe and worry, emphasizing the influence of zeptite programming.

• Kyryk's Curiosity: His telepathic connection to F. Tyhry, combined with his Hierion Domain knowledge, should pique his interest in femtobots and the possibility of modifying the Viewer.

Continuing Scene 18:

Hypatia, a woman of formidable intellect, quickly grasps the situation. "So...this world. A new beginning? Manny's grand experiment?" Her eyes sweep the room, landing on Kyryk and Xyron. "And who are these... beings?" She approaches, extending a hand to Kyryk. "Hypatia. My world knew me as a philosopher, but my role under Manny the bumpha was less... traditional."

Intrigued, Kyryk offers a mental greeting, a wave of unfamiliar sensations washing over Hypatia. "Kyryk. A pleasure, Hypatia. And I am..." He hesitates, sensing confusion from Hypatia, "I am a tryp'At from the far future of a different Reality."

"Time travel too?" Hypatia's brows furrow slightly. "Manny's reach is wider than I thought. So what is the goal here, Eddy?"

Eddy steps forward. "To create a society based on telepathic communication rather than speech. But more than that, a community without the weight of history's mistakes. This planet, with the Viewer, offers a chance to rebuild anew."

Just then, a cry pierces the air. Zeta, face flushed with pain, clutches her swollen belly. Eddy rushes to her side. "Zeta, the baby? It's time?"

Whispers ripple through the room. F. Tyhry's eyes lock with Kyryk's. "This is unusual," she murmurs. Kyryk nods, his expression unreadable.

"Can you help her?" Eddy's voice is tinged with panic.

Kyryk places a reassuring hand on Eddy's shoulder. "The tryp'At have considerable knowledge of pregnancy. Let me examine her." With gentle telepathic probing, Kyryk assesses the situation.

"The zeptites…" Kyryk glances at F. Tyhry. "Not only have they accelerated development, but they appear to be... responsive. Is there a way to adjust their programming?"

F. Tyhry steps closer. "Manny programmed them, but her control is gone now. My body is still composed of femtobots. Perhaps I could link with them somehow... but it's a risk."

Questions/Ideas to Consider:

• How can we make Hypatia a useful addition to the team? Perhaps her knowledge of history and human nature might be beneficial in planning Tar'tron's society.

• What's the risk of Tyhry linking with the zeptites? Could there be unintended consequences like the zeptites altering her personality or causing physical harm?

• Where does the idea of modifying the Viewer fit in? Kyryk seems to sense something in Tyhry's thoughts about the femtobots. It could be the key, but we need a way to introduce the idea smoothly.

Let's talk about how to address these questions as we finish the scene! I'm excited to see where it all leads!

 Me: Gemini, you wrote the following line of dialog spoken by Hypatia:  

"My world knew me as a philosopher, but my role under Manny the bumpha was less... traditional."  

Please re-write that part of scene 18, preceding that line of text with the following:  

Hypatia was in telepathic contact with Kyryk and Xyron, allowing her to learn from their thoughts that her mission on Earth had been a success and her life on Earth had been remembered by future generations of Earthlings and people like Eddy.

Gemini: Absolutely! Here's the revised version incorporating Hypatia's telepathic connection with Kyryk and Xyron:

Hypatia, a woman of formidable intellect, quickly grasped the situation. "So...this world. A new beginning? Manny's grand experiment?" Her eyes sweep the room, landing on Kyryk and Xyron. "And who are these... beings?"

She approaches, extending a hand to Kyryk. "Hypatia." A telepathic connection opens, and she feels an overwhelming torrent of information. Memories, not her own, flood her mind - centuries stretching out, the legacy of her teaching, of her on Earth, echoing across time to this far-flung world. A flicker of satisfaction crosses her face.

"My world knew me as a philosopher," she says, a wry smile playing on her lips, "but my role under Manny the bumpha was less... traditional."

How the change works:

• Builds Tension: The initial shock and disorientation remain, but with a twist. It emphasizes Hypatia's adaptability and ability to process complex information.

• Strengthens Character: The flicker of satisfaction adds a glimpse of Hypatia's pride while implying the secrecy and potential danger of her mission under Manny.

• Telepathic Connection: It makes organic use of the tryp'At telepathic abilities and foreshadows a potential alliance between Hypatia and the tryp'At on Tar'tron.

Let me know if there are any other adjustments you'd like to make!

 Me: Gemini, you wrote the following line of dialog spoken by Kyryk:  

"I am a tryp'At from the far future of a different Reality."  

Gemini, please re-write that part of scene 18 as:  

 "My people are the tryp'At, a human variant from the far future of a different Reality. We tryp'At were created by Manny the bumpha through a process of artificial evolution in the far future of the Ekcolir Reality, which is an alternative timeline of Earth that came before the Final Reality... the Earth you know."

Gemini: That's a great revision! Here's how I'd integrate the change into the scene:

Hypatia, a woman of formidable intellect, quickly grasps the situation. "So...this world. A new beginning? Manny's grand experiment?" Her eyes sweep the room, landing on Kyryk and Xyron. "And who are these... beings?"

She approaches, extending a hand to Kyryk. "Hypatia."

Intrigued, Kyryk offers a mental greeting, a wave of unfamiliar sensations washing over Hypatia. "Kyryk. A pleasure, Hypatia. My people are the tryp'At, a human variant from the far future of a different Reality. We tryp'At were created by Manny the bumpha through a process of artificial evolution in the far future of the Ekcolir Reality, which is an alternative timeline of Earth that came before the Final Reality... the Earth you know."

Why This Works:

• Expository, but Intriguing: This version offers more context, revealing the tryp'At origins and connection to Manny. However, it does this through Kyryk's matter-of-fact tone, keeping a sense of mystery about the Ekcolir Reality.

• Sets up Questions: It raises questions for Hypatia and the reader: Why did Manny create the tryp'At? What is this alternative timeline she speaks of? This makes us want to know more.

• Maintains Flow: The pacing remains smooth. The initial exchange provides information while leaving room for more questions, naturally continuing the conversation.

Let me know what you think or any further edits you have in mind!

 Me: Gemini, you wrote the following line of dialog spoken by Eddy:  

"But more than that, a community without the weight of history's mistakes."  

Gemini, please re-write that part of scene 18 as:  

"But more than that, this is a community of immortal replicoid copies of people... you and I are now immortal copies of our former biological selves!"

Gemini: Excellent change! This emphasizes the startling reality of the Tar'tron community and adds a subtle layer of tension. Here's the revised version:

Hypatia, a woman of formidable intellect, quickly grasps the situation. "So...this world. A new beginning? Manny's grand experiment?" Her eyes sweep the room, landing on Kyryk and Xyron. "And who are these... beings?" She approaches, extending a hand to Kyryk. "Hypatia. My world knew me as a philosopher, but my role under Manny the bumpha was less... traditional."

Intrigued, Kyryk offers a mental greeting, a wave of unfamiliar sensations washing over Hypatia. "Kyryk. A pleasure, Hypatia. My people are the tryp'At, a human variant from the far future of a different Reality. We tryp'At were created by Manny the bumpha through a process of artificial evolution in the far future of the Ekcolir Reality, which is an alternative timeline of Earth that came before the Final Reality... the Earth you know."

"Time travel too?" Hypatia's brows furrow slightly. "Manny's reach is wider than I thought. So what is the goal here, Eddy?"

Eddy steps forward. "But more than that, this is a community of immortal replicoid copies of people... you and I are now immortal copies of our former biological selves!"

 

Why the Change is Strong:

• Direct & Personal: Eddy's statement forces the reality of the situation to sink in for Hypatia. It's no longer about some theoretical society. She's in the midst of replicoids, her very existence altered.

• Adds Ambiguity: Eddy's choice of words, "former biological selves," could hint at potential philosophical challenges about identity and mortality. This opens up possibilities to explore within the story.

• Keeps the Core Message: It emphasizes the 'new beginning' aspect of Tar'tron, but with a more unsettling undertone.

Let me know if you have any other adjustments you'd like to make!

 Me: Gemini, please do NOT remove this line of dialog: "To create a society based on telepathic communication rather than speech."

Gemini: I apologize for the misunderstanding. I understand you want to keep the line "To create a society based on telepathic communication rather than speech" in the scene. Here's the revised text incorporating both your previous request and keeping the telepathic communication line:

Hypatia, a woman of formidable intellect, quickly grasps the situation. "So...this world. A new beginning? Manny's grand experiment?" Her eyes sweep the room, landing on Kyryk and Xyron. "And who are these... beings?"

She approaches, extending a hand to Kyryk. "Hypatia. My world knew me as a philosopher, but my role under Manny the bumpha was less... traditional."

Intrigued, Kyryk offers a mental greeting, a wave of unfamiliar sensations washing over Hypatia. "Kyryk. A pleasure, Hypatia. My people are the tryp'At, a human variant from the far future of a different Reality. We tryp'At were created by Manny the bumpha through a process of artificial evolution in the far future of the Ekcolir Reality, which is an alternative timeline of Earth that came before the Final Reality... the Earth you know."

"Time travel too?" Hypatia's brows furrow slightly. "Manny's reach is wider than I thought. So what is the goal here, Eddy?"

Eddy steps forward. "To create a society based on telepathic communication rather than speech. But more than that, this is a community of immortal replicoid copies of people... you and I are now immortal copies of our former biological selves!"

This revision keeps the core elements you requested while maintaining a smooth flow within the scene. Let me know if you have any other edits!

 Me: Gemini, you wrote:  

Eddy rushes to her side.  

Gemini, please re-write that part of scene 18, replacing that sentence with the following:  

Kyryk was telepathically in contact with the near-term fetus that was inside Zeta. Kyryk was aware that Zeta was going into labor. He told Eddy, "We should return to Zeta. I believe your new child is soon to be among us." Eddy rushed from the chamber that held the Reality Viewer. Kyryk and Hypatia folowed along, at a more sedate pace. While they walked, Kyryk explained to Hypatia that Zeta would soon give birth to the first person born on Tar'tron, a telepathic child of Eddy and Zeta who had gestated for only one month. Eddy hurried into his house and rushed to Zeta's side.

Gemini: Absolutely! Here's the revised version incorporating Kyryk's telepathic connection and additional details about the fast-developing birth:

...A cry pierces the air. Zeta, face flushed with pain, clutches her swollen belly. Kyryk was telepathically in contact with the near-term fetus that was inside Zeta. Kyryk was aware that Zeta was going into labor. He told Eddy, "We should return to Zeta. I believe your new child is soon to be among us."

Eddy rushed from the chamber that held the Reality Viewer. Kyryk and Hypatia follow, at a more sedate pace. While they walk, Kyryk explains to Hypatia that Zeta will soon give birth to the first person born on Tar'tron, a telepathic child of Eddy and Zeta who had gestated for only one month. Eddy hurries into his house and rushes to Zeta's side.

How the Change is Stronger:

• Kyryk's Unique Abilities: It showcases the tryp'At telepathic capabilities with the fetus, highlighting the otherworldly nature of this new society on Tar'tron.

• Builds Suspense: The focus on the birth's imminence adds a sense of urgency and anticipation to the scene.

• Enhanced Description: The additional details clarify how Kyryk knows about the birth and establishes the child's unique circumstances.

Is there anything else you'd like to adjust within this section of Scene 18?

 Me: Gemini, F. Tyhry remains with Xyron when Eddy rushes away to be with Zeta.

F. Tyhry asks to use the Reality Viewer. F. Tyhry Views Rylla who is back on Earth. She tells Xyron, "I hope to find a way to use the nanite components of my body as a source of programmable femtobots. There might be a way for me to use hacking nanites to modify the function of this Viewer."

F. Tyhry gestures towards the image being displayed by the Viewer. "This is Rylla, my sister. She has long used a Reality Simulation System to study the secret history of Earth. She once wrote a report about the uses and capabilities of such Viewers, when they were used to View and plan new future Realities. I believe this Viewer can be used to allow two-way communication with a person who is being Viewed."

  Xyron tells F. Tyhry, "You should work with Kyryk who was a skilled nanite programmer when we lived at Siteq. In fact, Kyryk is telepathically calling for you. Your mother needs you."

F. Tyhry rushes to be with Zeta and upon her arrival in the room with Zeta, the scene continues as you wrote it including this part:
"The zeptites…" Kyryk glances at F. Tyhry. "Not only have they accelerated development, but they appear to be... responsive. Is there a way to adjust their programming?"

Gemini: Excellent adjustments! Here's how I'd integrate your changes into the scene seamlessly, aiming to keep the flow and momentum you've created:

...A cry pierces the air. Zeta, face flushed with pain, clutches her swollen belly. Kyryk was telepathically in contact with the near-term fetus that was inside Zeta and he was aware that Zeta was going into labor. He tells Eddy, "We should return to Zeta. I believe your new child is soon to be among us."

Eddy rushes from the chamber that held the Reality Viewer. Kyryk and Hypatia follow, at a more sedate pace. While they walk, Kyryk explains to Hypatia that Zeta will soon give birth to the first person born on Tar'tron, a telepathic child of Eddy and Zeta who had gestated for only one month. Eddy hurries into his house and rushes to Zeta's side.

Meanwhile, F. Tyhry remains with Xyron. "I need to use the Viewer," she says, a sense of urgency in her voice. Xyron activates the device, and an image of a woman flickers into existence.

"This is Rylla, my sister," Tyhry explains. "She has long used a Reality Simulation System to study the secret history of Earth. She once wrote a report about Reality Viewers, the kind used to plan new Realities. I believe this Viewer can be modified to allow two-way communication with those being Viewed."

A flicker of interest crosses Xyron's face. "I understand. However, your skills lie in femtobots, not zeptites. Kyryk was a skilled nanite programmer when we lived in Siteq. Perhaps a collaboration would be best. In fact..." he pauses, "...Kyryk is telepathically calling for you. Your mother needs you."

F. Tyhry rushes to be with Zeta, a mix of hope and trepidation swirling in her mind. Upon entering the room, she witnesses the scene unfold:

"The zeptites…" Kyryk glances at F. Tyhry. "Not only have they accelerated development, but they appear to be... responsive. Is there a way to adjust their programming?"

How it Works:

• Smooth Transition: The changes weave seamlessly into the existing scene. We shift focus back to Tyhry, establishing her motivation and setting up the collaboration with Kyryk.

• Organic Tension: Kyryk's telepathic call for Tyhry creates an immediate transition, maintaining the urgency of the birth and drawing Tyhry back to her mother's side.

Does this flow well with the rest of the scene and your vision for the story? Let me know if you have any other edits!

 Me: Gemini, thank you for your help with this scene. I would never have imagined using the birth of Zeta's child as a crisis that forces F. Tyhry to quickly start reprogramming femtobots. Gemini, F. Anthony is a special replicoid. Anthony was made by Manny and used as her agent in the Asimov Reality. Now, on Tar'tron, Anthony reveals his ability to morph his body and assist with the delivery of Zeta's baby. F. Tyhry reprograms some of Anthony's femtobots, turning them into "hacking nanites" that Tyhry can use to activate the interstellar communications function of the Reality Viewer.

 Gemini: Fascinating twist! Here's how we can integrate Anthony's special abilities, the crisis of the birth, and F. Tyhry's hacking nanites into the scene, building towards the activation of interstellar communication:

Rising Tension:

• We can heighten the tension surrounding Zeta's childbirth. Here's an example:

Zeta screamed, a primal sound that echoed through the room. Sweat beaded on Eddy's brow despite the cool temperature. "There's a complication," he rasped. Kyryk's brow furrowed in telepathic concentration. "The zeptite programming seems to be… conflicting with the natural birthing process."

Anthony Steps In:

• This is where Anthony's unique abilities can shine:

A metallic groan resonated as F. Anthony stepped forward. His metallic body shimmered and reformed, morphing into a series of long, flexible tendrils. "I can assist," he said, his voice surprisingly gentle. "These tendrils can provide support without harming the baby."

Tyhry's Solution:

• With the immediate crisis somewhat under control, F. Tyhry can present her plan:

F. Tyhry watched in awe as Anthony's tendrils eased Zeta's pain. A sliver of hope pierced through the tension. "There might be a way to help," she said, her voice tight with determination. "The nanite components in my body... I can reprogram some of them. If I can create hacking nanites, like the ones I used on Earth, I might be able to modify the Reality Viewer."

 

Shifting Focus to Communication:

• Explain the purpose of the hacking nanites:

"By modifying the Viewer," she continued, her eyes gleaming with a newfound resolve, "I might be able to activate its interstellar communication functions. Then, I could contact my sister, Rylla. She might have the knowledge to help us understand the zeptite programming and ensure a safe birth."

Building Momentum:

• We can end this part of the scene with a sense of hope and anticipation:

A flicker of understanding crossed Kyryk's face. "Intriguing. Perhaps by combining your hacking nanites with my knowledge of femtobot programming, we can achieve this modification." He reached out a hand to Tyhry. "Let's begin."

Further Considerations:

• How will the hacking nanites affect F. Tyhry? Will there be risks or side effects?

• Will Zeta's baby be born healthy? Will the zeptite programming have any lasting effects?

These are some questions we can explore as we continue the scene. I'm excited to see how this all unfolds!

 Me: Gemini, you asked:

Will Zeta's baby be born healthy?

  Here is a part of scene 11 of "The Nanite Smuggler":
Just then, Manny popped into the lab and told F. Tyhry, "Well, I must say even I did not see this trick coming. The Phari were quite crafty in their maneuvering. And I did not even know that you existed until I found the scanner femtobots in the bodies of Zeta and Eddy just now, back in the Final Reality."

She turned to the replicoid copies of Eddy and Zeta. "So tell me, now that you potentially have all eternity before you, what do you wish to do with your new-found immortality?"

The Zeta replicoid looked uncertain. "It’s rather difficult to accept that we could be immortal copies of our biological selves. Are you sure about this, Manny?"

Manny smiled confidently. "Let me demonstrate the resilience your new bodies provide." Suddenly she thrust out a hand, releasing a destructive beam of energy that blasted a hole straight through the chest of the Eddy replicoid. But before the shocked eyes of the Zeta copy, Eddy's body rapidly regenerated until he was made whole again, completely unharmed.

Manny nodded with satisfaction. "An immortal replicoid indeed. Well done, F. Tyhry, I congratulate you on a fine job of nanite-mediated manufacture of immortal artificial life-forms. However, I cannot condone making any more such replicoids on Earth at this time.”

Manny approached Tyhry's parents and placed hands on Zeta and Eddy. “I will take you to a planet called Tar'tron, far away in the galactic core where you can create an experimental community of immortal humans. That will be an interesting little experiment.. a pilot program. We'll learn how humans deal with immortality." {end scene 11 fragment}

Gemini, F. Anthony will surgically widen Zeta's birth canal, allowing her baby to be born. Zeta's body will almost instantly heal.

Gemini: That's a powerful twist! Knowing Zeta's body will immediately heal adds a unique element to the birthing scene, Here's how I suggest integrating this into our revised version, aiming for impact and a sense of urgency:

...Zeta screamed, a primal sound that echoed through the room. Sweat beaded on Eddy's brow despite the cool temperature. "There's a complication," he rasped. Kyryk's brow furrowed in telepathic concentration. "The zeptite programming seems to be… conflicting with the natural birthing process."

F. Anthony stepped forward. His body shimmered, morphing into a series of long, flexible tendrils. "I can assist," he said, his voice surprisingly gentle. "These tendrils can provide support and manipulation from within her body."

"There might be more we can do," F. Tyhry said, her voice tight with determination. "The nanite components in my body... I can reprogram some of them. If I can create hacking nanites, like the ones I used on Earth, I might be able to modify the Reality Viewer. Perhaps even widen her birth canal."

A flicker of understanding crossed Kyryk's face. "That might give us the time we need. Proceed."

F. Tyhry concentrated, her mind a whirlwind of nanite commands. With a surge of will, she directed the hacking nanites towards Anthony's tendrils. They bonded in a flash, granting Tyhry control.

"Now," Anthony hissed, "I will expand the birth canal. Be warned, it will be painful for Zeta..."

A scream pierced the air as Anthony's tendrils shifted within Zeta's body. Then, with a gasp, the child emerged. Kyryk reached for the newborn, a sense of triumph and relief washing over him.

But their work was not done. Zeta's body began to close, the zeptites aggressively healing the temporary incision. "The programming!" Kyryk exclaimed. "It's interfering!"

F. Tyhry's pulse quickened. She couldn't allow it to fully heal yet. "More hacking nanites," she barked. "We need to prevent the healing for now!"

In a desperate race against the zeptites, F. Tyhry pushed her nanite programming skills to the limit...

Why It Works:

• Increased Stakes: Knowing Zeta will eventually heal adds a new layer of tension. It's not just about the immediate birth but also about maintaining the opening to ensure the safe delivery.

• Collaborative Urgency: The scene becomes even more dynamic, showcasing the quick thinking of F. Tyhry, F. Anthony, and Kyryk.

• Potential Risks: Hinting at Zeta's body closing too fast creates uncertainty and a sense of danger. Will Tyhry be able to control the zeptites in time?

Let me know if you want to further heighten the tension of this scene!

Anthony morphs into a femtobot surgeon.

 Me: Gemini, please generate an image that illustrates the morphed body of the femtobot replicoid F. Anthony as he prepares to assist in the birth of Zeta's child. While morphing, his body shimmers, morphing into a series of long, flexible tendrils.

 ________________________

 I asked Gemini to generate the image that is shown to the right. I'm pleased with the performance of Gemini (shown above on this page) in helping craft scene 18 of "The Nanite Smuggler".

 It was definitely worth taking the time to fine-tune the information that I provided to Gemini. Gemini led me in directions that I never would have gone by myself.

Next: Moving on to create scene 19 of "The Nanite Smuggler".

Images by WOMBO Dream and Leonardo. Visit the Gallery of Movies, Book and Magazine Covers

Manny Goes On Vacation

Mr. Wombo's Neanderthal.

 In my previous blog post, I described my use of the WOMBO cloud-based CLIP-guided image generating software to make an illustration depicting Tyhry making use of futuristic teleportation technology. With the Eternity teleportation equipment back in full operation, Tyhry's planned trip to Alastor Cluster can focus on other technological issues such as finding medical nanites that could be used by the Mind Clones to enhance their telepathic abilities. However, Manny has her own agenda, which includes providing Tyhry with an appreciation for the fact that development of human telepathy began with the Neanderthals. 

When I asked "Mr. Wombo" to generate an image depicting a Neanderthal, I got the image shown to the right. In my imagination, the Neanderthals had a rudimentary telepathic ability that helped support social cohesion.

Neanderthals fishing.

Imagine that Manny takes Tyhry and Marda into the Reality Simulation System so that they can experience what life was like for the Neanderthals. When I asked Mr. Wombo to provide an image depicting Neanderthals fishing, I got the image shown to the left.

Manny teaching Tyhry and Marda
how to survive in the past.

I asked Mr. Wombo for a "closeup" view and was eventually able to obtain the image shown to the right.

I've learned that the "Flora V2" style of the WOMBO image generator can be useful for providing alternative perspectives on a scene. I used "Flora V2" to generate an alternate version of the fishing scene.

Figure 1. "Flora V2" style

In the image to the left, Mr. Wombo inserted a bird and a boat on the lake. I edited that image and began using this text prompt: "Neanderthal women cooking, wearing animal skin clothing, Margot Robbie is a Neanderthal woman, Meg Ryan is a Neanderthal woman, Kriti Sanon is a Neanderthal woman".

cool shades

One of the big problems for Mr. Wombo in generating this scene was his desire to make a shiny modern frying pan and provide either Tyhry or Marda with sunglasses.

Also, I did prefer versions of this cooking scene in which Marda was holding the pan with her left hand and Manny was not touching the pan, as shown to the left. Mr. Wombo preferred Manny holding the handle of the pan, as shown in Figure 1.

Other problems for Mr. Wombo included: 1) his desire to randomly insert an additional bird into the scene, sometimes perched in Marda's hair, 2) often the boat would either disappear or turn into a spiffy 20th century speedboat.

Dinner time: 40,000 BCE.

I'm fairly satisfied with the image shown to the left, although this is a composite with Tyhry having been generated in a different image than the right hand side of the scene. It was essentially impossible for Mr. Wombo to generate all of the hands correctly for all three women in a single image.

One of the challenges of working with the "Flora V2" style of WOMBO is that it will often convert a human figure into animal form, particularly in this case where I was asking for human figures dressed in animal skins.

Manny takes on animal form.

Manny the bumpha is composed of zeptites and she is able to take on any convenient physical form. Maybe while instructing Tyhry and Marda in the ways of the Neanderthals, Manny might find it useful to take on animal form as in the image to the right.

Guest appearance by a cat.

With the "Flora V2" style persistently inserting animals into images, I ended up with a cat included on an image that was meant to illustrate a "field trip" conducted by Manny inside the Reality Simulation System.

Asterothropes, Wombo style.

For the Exode Saga, I imagine that Asterothropes are a human variant. I asked Mr. Wombo to make a depiction using this text prompt: "painting of Asterothrope women, Margot Robbie is an Asterothrope woman, Kriti Sanon is an Asterothrope woman, Asterothropes are a human variant created by genetic engineering".

Figure 2. Three Asterothropes.

I thought it was possible that this image was in the Stable Diffusion image database, but apparently not. I tried providing the image shown to the keft as a reference image. 

The resulting images generated by Mr. Wombo were mostly unusable because the image-generating algorithm could not correctly construct the left leg of the Asterothrope female (because the Asterothrope hermaphrodite, in green, was in front of her).

Mr. Wombo's version of Figure 2.

The image to the right had to be modified with Photoshop, but I did not have the patience to fix problems like Yenti's swollen left foot. I think the "Womboized" version of Figure 2 is better, so I replaced the original image on this web page for my story Telepaths of Site Q. Also, see the updated image on this page.

telepathic alien at sundown

In the image shown to the left, Manny introduces Tyhry and Marda to an alien telepath on a planet in Alastor Cluster. As the sun sets and clouds roll in, the alien can still guide Tyhry and Marda through the dark night to their destination.

alternate telepathic alien

An alternate version of this scene is shown to the right with a different style of alien. I'm not sure what is the best way to show a low light level for this scene.

Tyhry's dream of "Big Blue".

 Tyhry's Dreams Part 4. The image to the left shows one of Tyhry's dreams that was created by information flow from the future. Tyhry is able to access information in the Sedron Time Stream. Tyhry had this dream when she was seven years old. Yes, that is Tyhry's mother Zeta dressed in black.

From an early age, Tyhry knows that she will have contact in the future with replicoids and travel to exoplanets.

Thyry1 and Tyhry2 welcome Marda
to the nanite research laboratory
inside the Reality Simulation System

 Nanite Research Laboratory. Tyhry makes use of the Reality Simulation System to establish a nanite research laboratory in a fork of the Ekcolir Reality. After Marda graduates from college, Tyhry finally shows her the secret research laboratory.

In the image shown to the right, Marda is startled when a second copy of Tyhry appears in the laboratory. Tyhry has made several copies of herself in order to accelerate her nanite research.

Mr. Wombo's space elevator

 Space Elevator. I asked Mr. Wombo for a "photograph of a futuristic space elevator". The resulting image was completely useless (see the image to the left). 

looking at a space elevator

I then asked for: "photograph looking at a futuristic space elevator, view from ground level looking up". The image shown to the right is also useless, but it illustrates the challenges involved in trying to get Mr. Wombo to be useful in illustrating science fiction stories.

Marda and the space elevator

With some effort and some Photoshop massaging, I was able to produce the image shown to the left.

In my imagination, this is on a planet of Alastor Cluster in the future of the Asimov Reality, a time and place when space elevators are in use by technologically advanced worlds. Maybe hierion-based composite materials allow for super-strong elevator cables that can guide ocean-liner-sized elevator cars carrying thousands of people at a time. Marda is on a stratospheric observation platform such as the one shown here. The full-sized image is available here.

Flora's space elevator

As usual, "Flora V2" style of the WOMBO image generator provided its unique view of a space elevator (see the image to the right).

anti-gravity sports

While visiting Alastor Cluster, Marda (a rock climbing enthusiast) takes Tyhry and Manny to an antigravity-assist rock climbing park (see the image to the left). Tyhry already has experience using anti-gravity hierions in the clothing that she designs.

 Back in the Nanite Laboratory. I wanted an illustration showing Tyhry, Manny and Marda in a laboratory setting, examining newly collected nanites that have been returned to Earth from a simulation of Alastor Cluster.

Nanoscopy by Tyhry and Marda.

 Previously, Mr. Wombo helped me make some illustrations for Tyhry in her lab while she is working to develop hair nanites (also see the end of this blog post). For the image to the right, I asked Mr. Wombo to make a scene for confocal microscopy, but I can pretend that Tyhry and Marda are investigating submicroscopic nanites.

Exoplanet setting.

 Let's Get Serious about Aircars. I asked Mr. Wombo to provide an image for: "photographic closeup of a flying aircar with passengers inside, science fiction setting, looking into the aircar through a window, exoplanet background, show passengers inside the aircar".

Tyhry and Marda in an aircar

Eventually, I got the image shown to the right. Mr. Wombo does not have the concept of symmetry for the wings of an aircar. Also, I had to paste the human figures into the aircar.

aircar by Flora

When I turned this image over to the "Flora v2" style engine, Mr. Wombo turned things around, sending the aircar in the other direction (see the image to the left). Now Marda gets to pilot the aircar. The decorations on the side of Flora's aircar are pretty cool.

another aircar model

Here is another aircar model that Mr. Wombo came up with (image to the right). I had to suggest that the aircar be made to look like a van. Maybe Tyhry and Marda are in the back compartment with the autopilot in control of the aircar.

arrival at a floating city

I like the idea that there could be floating cities in the stratosphere of some planets in Alastor Cluster. The image to the left shows an aircar landing at a floating city (off screen, right).

back view

Here is one more view of a flying aircar (image to the right) provided by Mr. Wombo.

VFX aircar

To shake things up, I sequentially used the the WOMBO fantasy style, retro style, and then VFX. The resulting aircar (shown in the image to the left) seems hopelessly untrustworthy, but it looks impressive. 

The "HDR" style for WOMBO had some interesting ideas for aircars.

how to get around the town

The image to the right was initially generated with the "HDR" style and then fed back through the VFX style for the final version.

aircar night landing

For the Exode Saga, Marda and Tyhry have to carry out some of their mission at night. When Marda infiltrates a nanite research facility and obtains a sample of the nanites, Tyhry arrives in the middle of the night for a dramatic extraction of Marda from the secret research facility.

Tyhry picks up Marda

Once again, Miss Flora had her own ideas for how to depict this scene (see the image to the right). Flora can't resist adding animals to scenes, so here we get some kind of night bird above the aircar.

flying aircar above road

I like how Mr. Wombo was able to provide some interesting lighting for these night-time scenes. I don't have the patience to correct all of Mr. Wombo's idiosyncrasies such as where he decides to draw lines down the roadways.

Marda reaches the aircar.

Here is one more depiction of Marda's escape as generated by Mr. Wombo (image to the right). There were some "interesting" versions of this depiction with Marda seemingly jumping over the aircar. Maybe Mr. Wombo is also experimenting with anti-gravity nanites.

tool-using aliens

 Manny's Precards Part 2. In the past, I've illustrated several alien creatures from Alastor Cluster. I asked Mr. Wombo to provide me with an image of, "a photograph of two flying aliens using tools, the aliens have monkey heads, the alien talons look like human hands" (see the image to the left).

Figure 3. Tyhry's dream vision

With her access to the Sedron Time Stream, Tyhry has a childhood memory of a dream in which she was on an exoplanet where there were large flying aliens (see the image to the right).

Figure 4. Manny's precard

That dream memory (see Figure 3) was not a happy one for Tyhry. When Manny is trying to warn Tyhry about potential dangers in Alastor Cluster, Manny shows Tyhry a "precard" with a similar image (see Figure 4).

Tyhry asks Manny if she can "see the future", but Manny simply says that the bumpha are able to "fully process" the data provided in the Sedron Time Stream.

Next: the Bing chatbot.

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