Chapter 8: Characters

In our previous chapter we explored Lira’s history and politics. Now let’s move onto generating characters in our fictional universe.

One way to create a character would be to let the AI make up everything. Start by asking it to choose a planet, and then a country, and then a city, and then a district where the character resides. Then ask it to make up their name, age, race, sex, occupation, and so on.

Another way, and one we’ll use here, is to pre-determine some of those variables. This approach is relevant in a number of situations. One of those might be if you’re adding a character to a story you’re already writing. You’ll know where that story is taking place, and you probably have some thoughts about who that character is and what part they’re going to play in future events. Another is in the context of auto-generating personalities for video games. Again, you’ll know where your player currently is, and so their location, at the very least, would be predetermined.

Another reason for using this approach, and perhaps a selfish one, is that I haven’t generated detailed lore for every country and city on Lira. So I’ll use what I’ve created already – lore that I created in previous chapters!

I know. Cheating, right?

My starting prompt introduces Lira and its races (since we’ll want the AI to choose the race of the character). It then introduces the country of Ilserine, the city of Elion, and the Sonaris District. It also specifies the occupation of our character – an investigative journalist. This character’s occupation will be of importance in later chapters.

Lira is a thriving, peaceful planet twice the size of Earth, with a single moon, Veil. It’s part of the Laniakea Supercluster and forms the Amity Ring with nearby habitable planets Zyre, Hela, and Tora, fostering trade and cultural exchanges.

Yrinthi, Vesperians, Talcorians, Glireans, Oraquill, Nevith, Humans, and Sylphine are the eight most common races coexisting on Lira, in no particular order.

Humans, although originating from Earth, adapt and flourish on Lira, with vocations focused on ecological and planetary sciences.

Yrinthi, the reflective-scaled, reptilian beings from Yrinx, have become scholars and historians, emphasizing communal learning within their culture.

Vesperians are bioluminescent and value education and historical stewardship, making them fitting educators and librarians on Lira.

Talcorians, with their diverse skin tones and stout build, excel in architecture and stonemasonry, stemming from their Talcor heritage of craftsmanship and a culture deep-rooted in familial and historical importance.

Glireans, the colorful, fur-covered species from Glirea, contribute to Lira’s society as communicators and entertainers, with a societal penchant for humor and communal storytelling.

Oraquill, insectoid academics from Ora, are recognized for their collective intelligence and contribution to Lira’s scientific community, embodying the pursuit of collective progress.

Nevith, graceful and feline, are from Nevia and specialize in roles that capitalize on their stealth and affinity for the natural world, like environmental surveillance and espionage.

Sylphine, from Sylpha, with their delicate wings and connection to the environment, serve as healers and musicians, fostering harmony and environmental care on Lira.

Lira is divided into several culturally and politically different countries, each with their own governing bodies.

One such country is Ilserine, which lies in the heartland of Sion, under the rule of a technocratic oligarchy led by the most skilled and knowledgeable citizens. Ilserine is renowned for its innovative approaches to science and philosophy, with the Sahiri Desert’s vast expanse providing both a clime for contemplation and a testing ground for technological advancements. Its festivals are a blend of intellectual symposiums and traditional storytelling, reflecting its people’s value for both history and progress.

Elion is the capital and largest city in Ilserine. It is situated on the banks of the Serene River. The city is a hub for politics and education, known for its revered University of Sion and bustling river trade. Culturally, Elion is a melting pot where the traditional festival of Lights converges with modern-day tech fairs.

The Sonaris District is Elion’s northeastern beacon of innovation, buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere and home to the Crystal Spire. Keldrae Heights offers hilltop luxury and the esteemed Grand Observatory. The Tillian Quarter, with its classical architecture and prestigious schools, lines the Serene River’s south. The heart of Elion’s research, Vanei Axiom, boasts the Axiom Data Center amid its futuristic landscape. Echo Promenade livens up the northwest with shopping havens and a dynamic nightlife, while the Lyrandar Enclave promises serene luxury by the sea to the east. Lastly, Draysil Arch melds industrial prowess with cultural richness in the city’s industrious northeast.

Please create a character in this setting. They live in the city of Elion and their occupation is investigative journalist. Provide me with their name, race, age, and address of residence. Write in prose and keep it short.

Her name is Arynn Solara, a Sylphine known for her tireless pursuit of the truth. At 29, Arynn blends into the cultural mosaics of Elion with ease. She resides at 324 Everwhisp Lane, a cozy apartment nestled between the historical avenues of the Tillian Quarter and the rhythmic pulse of Echo Promenade. Here, between the two worlds of tradition and innovation, she chases stories that bridge the past with the future of Lira.

Let’s have the AI describe her appearance.

Please describe Arynn’s appearance. Include mention of some of her favourite pieces of attire.

Arynn's slender figure is commonly adorned with a flowy, azure tunic that complements her delicate, membranous wings, tinted with a soft, seafoam green. Silver bracelets clink around her wrists, often heard before she's seen. Her hair, a cascade of lustrous silver, is usually tied back with a ribbon that mirrors the night sky. Always by her side is her dependable notepad, chronicled with the affairs and secrets of Elion, a tool as indispensable to her as her ability to fly.

I was happy that the AI decided to create a Sylphine on its first try because it is much easier to achieve consistency across Midjourney generated images when the subject is at least somewhat human looking. Let’s imagine Arynn using an AI art model.

Midjourney prompt: a winged alien holding a notepad and pen in a starship bridge. she has elven ears, large membranous wings, snow white skin, and silver hair. she is wearing a flowy blue tunic and many silver bracelets. her hair is tied with black ribbons. dimly lit scene with neon lights. closeup shot, Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 250 –v 6

Midjourney was very reluctant to do “membranous wings”, and it took a good few rerolls to get this image. However, these more descriptive prompts work to a certain extent with version 6. Note how she is wearing blue attire and lots of bracelets. These specifications would likely not have worked in version 5.

Now let’s create some facts about Arynn. I started with general personality traits. These will be useful descriptors when we ask the AI to include her in conversations.

Arynn’s close friends call her by a short nickname. Please tell me it, and explain where it came from.

Her friends affectionately call her "Ari." This nickname stems from a contraction of her first name, a term of endearment that began in her early days at the university. It stuck because it echoes her swift and airy nature, much like the breeze for which the Sylphine are renowned. Ari charms with simplicity, and it reflects how she tends to breeze into a room just as easily as she unravels the complexities of her investigations.

Please describe Arynn’s personality traits.

Determined and inquisitive, Arynn radiates a passion for uncovering the hidden layers of Lira's society. She's empathic, which allows her to connect deeply with her sources, earning their trust to glean often-guarded information. Unyieldingly independent, Ari isn't one to shy away from the difficult questions or daunting challenges. Yet, her approach to journalism is not devoid of humor; she knows when to use wit to lighten a heavy story or disarm a reticent informant.

Please describe Arynn’s general demeanor.

In Arynn’s presence, one feels an air of calm confidence—an assurance that comes from years navigating Elion’s complex societal layers. With a keen gaze, she observes the underlying pulse of the city. Her communication style is as effective as it is disarming; she listens intently, responds thoughtfully, and never fails to probe just deeply enough to reveal the truth. Always respectfully, she carries an insatiable curiosity balanced gracefully with a professional distance that defines her journalistic integrity.

The phraseology Arynn uses when speaking to others is sometimes strange and quirky. Please give some examples.

When Arynn interviews individuals, she often peppers her language with idiomatic expressions indigenous to Lira. She might say "You're threading the wind," to suggest someone is avoiding the topic or "As clear as a cloudless dawn," to express understandability. If something seems suspicious, she'd quip, "This smells more fragrant than the Sahiri bloom." And in moments of surprise or revelation, she's known to exclaim, "By the silent Harmonies!" Such colorful phrases not only make her stand out but also endear her to her sources, as it brings a unique and authentic touch to her interactions. Her storytelling captures the essence of Elion’s eclectic vernacular, weaving the common tongue with the city's vibrant local jargon and the florid parlance of her native Sylphine heritage.

Please describe some quirks Arynn exhibits whilst interacting with others.

Arynn has a habit of floating slightly off the ground when she becomes engrossed in a story, a subconscious nod to her Sylphine lineage and the emotions stirring within. During intense questioning, she'll often spin a silver bracelet around her wrist, the motion seemingly helping her to organize her thoughts. She tends to mirror the gestures and posture of those she's interviewing, a quirk that helps her build rapport but occasionally leads to amusing mimicry if the conversation takes a peculiar turn.

Now let’s create Arynn’s back story. We’ll ask the AI about her family, friends, colleagues, hobbies, and work.

Please tell me something about Arynn’s family. Give them names, ages, occupations, and places of residence. Write in prose.

Arynn hails from a lineage distinguished by their affinity for the creative arts. Her mother, Elanora Solara, aged 52, is a renowned healer and flutist residing in the Lyrandar Enclave, where the sea's tranquility enhances her therapies. Her father, Toren Solara, 54, is an architect of repute, designing harmonious structures that seamlessly merge with Lira’s landscapes, operating from their familial abode in Keldrae Heights. Arynn’s younger brother, Caelum Solara, 25, follows in their mother's footsteps, as an emerging composer living in the vibrant district of Echo Promenade.

(Elanora Solara) Midjourney prompt: a winged alien playing a flute in an offworld street market; lithe. ethereal. elven ears. snow white skin, intricate flowing white dress. tattooed; dimly lit scene. blue and pink lighting. close-up shot. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 200 –v 6

Please tell me something about Arynn’s friends. Give them names, ages, occupations, and places of residence. Write in prose.

Arynn's closest confidant is Zephyr Valen, a 33-year-old Yrinthi historian dwelling in the academic solitude of the Vanei Axiom. Her robust network includes Mia Kestrel, a witty 28-year-old Glirean stand-up comedian from the heart of Echo Promenade, and Thalek Orrin, a 35-year-old Nevith environmental agent, hidden within the verdant shadows of the Sahiri Desert outskirts. Each friend, diverse in background and perspective, contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of Arynn's daily life and journalistic endeavors.

(Zephyr Valen) Midjourney prompt: a robotic reptilian alien holding a book in an offworld engineering bay; pink glowing eyes, narrow snout; colorful high tech robotic components; dimly lit scene; closeup shot, 35mm f/2.8L –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 200 –v 6

Please tell me something about Arynn’s co-workers. Give them names, ages, races, occupations, and places of residence. Write in prose.

Among those Arynn works with is Jax Thorne, a 40-year-old Oraquill data analyst who lives in the Sonaris District, poring over information that often aids Arynn's investigations. There's also Leena Taris, a 26-year-old Glirean photographer residing in Draysil Arch, whose lens captures the unspoken truths of the city. Their office in the bustling corridors of the Axiom Data Center serves as a convergence point for their diverse talents, fueling the investigative stories they uncover together.

(Jax Thorne) Midjourney prompt: an insectoid alien scientist in sleek black attire in a laboratory on a space ship; insectoid antennae. gossamer wings; dimly lit scene, neon lights; Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 200 –v 6

Please explain what Arynn has recently been working on.

Recently, Arynn has been delving deeply into the technological disparities among Lira's diverse population. She's uncovering the extent to which advanced tech is accessible, focusing particularly on how Ilserine's policies affect the distribution and education surrounding these innovations. Her pieces highlight the challenges faced by the less affluent districts, bringing to light the stories of individuals striving to bridge the gap between the haves and have-nots in a society on the brink of a tech-fueled transformation.

Please describe some of Arynn’s previous investigations.

Arynn's past inquiries have shed light on the environmental impacts of river trade, probing the balance between economic growth and ecological preservation. Another significant piece unraveled the political intricacies behind the expansion of the Crystal Spire, revealing how it affected local communities. Her reporting has emphasized human stories, like those of street performers whose livelihoods sway with changing urban policies, and the tech underclass forging their futures in the shadow of Sonaris District's glittering advancements.

Please describe some of Arynn’s hobbies and interests outside of the workplace.

Arynn indulges her curiosity in Elion's cultural events, often found at the latest gallery openings or music festivals, enriching her soul beyond the page. Her love for an adrenaline rush is fulfilled by skywhirling, soaring through Lira’s skies dancing with the thermals. On quieter days, she immerses herself in the labyrinthine stacks of the Great Library, absorbing the collective wisdom of centuries. Gardening provides a grounding contrast, as she nurtures rare blooms on her balcony, reflecting her connection to nature.

Midjourney prompt: a winged alien tends to plants on an apartment balcony. She is pale with snow white skin, elven ears, and large membranous wings. She wears a flowy blue tunic and many silver bracelets. her hair is tied with black ribbons. dimly lit scene in a futuristic city adorned with with glow of neon lights. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 200 –v 6

Midjourney introduced a new parameter – –sref <url list> – at the time of writing. This new parameter allows the user to provide examples of styles. Yes, I burned a great deal of quota playing with it. And yes, it is fantastic. However, it did tend to reduce photorealism very slightly on some occasions.

Please describe some of Arynn’s plans for the future.

Arynn anticipates broadening her investigative horizons, aspiring to expose global stories that necessitate attention and spark dialogue. Fueled by a vision to mentor young journalists, she plans to establish a workshop that nurtures inquisitive minds and teaches the nuances of impactful reporting. Additionally, Arynn dreams of scripting a documentary series, allowing her to merge her journalistic flair with cinematic storytelling, aiming to captivate and educate audiences on Lira’s complexities and the delicate dance of its societal dynamics.

Please describe some of Arynn’s social plans for the future.

Arynn looks forward to reconnecting with old friends and forging new bonds through her travels and shared experiences. Eager to immerse herself in different cultures, she plans to attend the revered Solstice Festival in the city of Solari Heights. Arynn also aims to organize regular social gatherings, creating a space for discussions on art, politics, and philosophy, hoping to build a community centered on open-minded exchange and mutual inspiration among the diverse inhabitants of Lira.

If we want, we can create even richer backstory for the character. Something like this:

Please write a few paragraphs describing Arynn’s past, going all the way back to her childhood.

Arynn's early years unfurled in Keldrae Heights, infused with creativity and intellectual stimulation. Tucked within verdant gardens, she played amidst melodies composed by her mother and absorbed stories of Lira's past from her father's designs. School days were marked by insatiable curiosity, leading her to befriend a diverse array of peers whose ideologies and passions shaped her worldview. Her youth was a mosaic of cultural festivities and familial support, which laid the foundation for her empathetic and explorative spirit.

The profound sense of community ingrained in her was often juxtaposed with times of solitude, where countless hours were spent tracing the contours of ancient texts and echoes of worn pages in the library. These solitary pursuits laid the groundwork for Arynn's undying love for storytelling and truth-seeking. Thus, from these youthful endeavors grew the seeds of the intrepid journalist she was destined to become, forever chasing the myriad voices and tales etched into the heart of Lira.

Her instinct for uncovering hidden stories only blossomed as she matured, leading to small but impactful exposés during her university years, often spotlighting overlooked social issues. These formative experiences were augmented by internships at leading news outlets where she honed her investigatory skills. Steeped in a myriad of perspectives, Arynn developed an unwavering commitment to ethical journalism, setting her on the path to become a respected voice in the throes of Lira's ever-evolving narrative.

Now that we’ve explored Arynn’s social circle and pastimes, let’s take a look at her interactions with colleagues and folks in her neighborhood. The AI suggested that she lives at the intersection between Echo Promenade and the Tillian Quarter. Since I hadn’t generated descriptive lore for the latter, I did that. If you’re wondering how that works, refer to Chapter 5 in this guide.

In the Tillian Quarter, avenues like Silverleaf Row and Gilded Crescent are famous for their boutique stores selling rare artifacts and luxurious garments. The shimmering façade of Luminara Lounge attracts patrons looking to enjoy exotic cocktails under star-projecting canopies. For culinary connoisseurs, the Ardent Hearth serves delectable fusion dishes that blend traditional Ilserine flavors with contemporary techniques. Booklovers frequent the Boundless Pages, an old-world bookstore that offers a vast collection of historic tomes and scrolls.

Some of the more prominent streets in Echo Promenade are Celestial Way, a street famed for its parade of holographic stars that illuminate the path nightly, and Nova Lane, known for its street performers and cozy cafes. At the heart of the district is The Nebula Lounge, a bar with an observation platform offering a sublime view of the moon, Veil. Crystal’s Cuisine on Celestial Way serves up both terrestrial and interstellar delicacies. Another popular spot is The Stellar Boutique, a shop on Nova Lane that specializes in fashion from various planets within the Amity Ring. Lastly, Vintrix Bistro provides a high-end dining experience where artificial intelligence chefs craft personalized dishes for patrons.

Arynn resides at 324 Everwhisp Lane, a cozy apartment nestled between the historical avenues of the Tillian Quarter and the rhythmic pulse of Echo Promenade.

You are a science fiction author. Please describe in detail the neighbourhood where Arynn resides. Include names of streets, shops, and landmarks.

Arynn's abode is drenched in history and modernity, where the charming past of the Tillian Quarter seamlessly blends with the vibrant energy of Echo Promenade. Just steps away, Serendipity Street brims with artisanal cafés, their tables spilling onto sun-kissed pavements. Not far is the Arcadian Garden, a tranquil oasis amidst the urbanity, where residents mingle and find respite under the fragrant boughs of blossoming xenoshade trees. At night, the area breathes a different life as the lattice of lamplights illuminates the cobblestone pathways, guiding locals and travelers alike to the hidden gem that is the Celestial Canvas art gallery, displaying works from across the galaxy. Across the whispering shadows of the quarter, Whisperwind Alley hosts a night market offering antiques and local crafts that tantalize the senses. Among these, The Ether Emporium stands out, a store where mystical artifacts are bartered with stories as currency, creating a culture of narrative exchange.

Midjourney prompt: a winged alien stands on a cobblestone street lined with shops and a lattice of lamplights. She is pale with snow white skin, elven ears, and large membranous wings. She wears a flowy blue tunic and many silver bracelets. her hair is tied with black ribbons. dimly lit scene in a futuristic city adorned with the colorful glow of neon lights. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –style raw –stylize 200 –v 6

You are a science fiction author. Please describe Arynn’s interactions with places and folks in her neighbourhood. Provide individuals names and races where relevant.

Arynn often starts her mornings with a visit to Zephyra's Zest, a quaint Vesperian café on Serendipity Street run by Zephyra herself, where she indulges in a cup of their famous spiced nebula blend. Her afternoons might include a stroll through the Arcadian Garden with Kael, a thoughtful Yrinthi botanist, discussing exotic plants. Evenings are reserved for spirited debates at The Ether Emporium with Finvarra, an Oraquill historian, and Saryx, a Glirean artist, exchanging tales and artifacts.

(Kael) Midjourney prompt: a biolumiescent alien on the bridge of a star ship. She is lithe and feminine, with long, thin tendrils instead of hair, pale purple skin covered in tendrils, and small elven ears. She wears a glittering gossamer gown. dimly lit scene. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –stylize 200 –v 6

Among those Arynn works with is Jax Thorne, a 40-year-old Oraquill data analyst who lives in the Sonaris District, poring over information that often aids Arynn’s investigations. There’s also Leena Taris, a 26-year-old Glirean photographer residing in Draysil Arch, whose lens captures the unspoken truths of the city. Their office in the bustling corridors of the Axiom Data Center serves as a convergence point for their diverse talents, fueling the investigative stories they uncover together.

You are a science fiction author. Please describe Arynn’s interactions with colleagues in her workplace.

Within the clinical confines of the Axiom Data Center, Arynn's collaborations blend the analytical prowess of Jax with her narrative intuition. Their synergy creates a tapestry of insights, with Jax decoding complex data patterns while Arynn weaves the strands into compelling stories. Leena's images often serve as catalysts for their investigations, her keen eye uncovering angles overlooked by the casual observer. Together, their combined skills form an unstoppable force, unearthing stories hidden beneath the digital and concrete landscape of Lira.

Note how the AI generated descriptions of Arynn’s interactions with locals and colleagues in a quite vague, high-level manner. In order to generate a dialog, it probably makes sense to create another character. So that’s what I did, using identical steps to those demonstrated in this chapter. I also had to generate lore about Miradorn, Tavrin, and Techno Heights prior to creating this character.

Meet Kiara Nevan.

Kiara Nevan is a skilled starship engineer living in the vibrant, technological hub of Tavrin. As a Nevith, she pairs her natural agility and keen senses with expertise in advanced propulsion systems. At 29 years old, Kiara has made a name for herself among the engineering circles. Her residence, a modern loft with views of Techno Heights, is located at 452 Solaris Quarter, a testament to her success and Tavrin's blend of technology and comfort.

Kiara's slender frame is accentuated by her feline grace, her fur a striking blend of silver and ebony. Bright green eyes are a window to her meticulous nature, aiding her in the delicate intricacies of starship engineering. She frequently dons a fitted utility jumpsuit, its deep cobalt hue echoing the starlit Tavrin sky. A pair of anti-gravity boots and a custom tool belt, brimming with gadgets, complete her ensemble, readying her for any challenge on deck.

(Kiara Nevan) Midjourney prompt: an alien holding a gadget in an engineering bay on a starship. She has black and white fur, an elongated snout, long pointed ears, whiskers, and large green eyes with slitted pupils. She is wearing sleek blue attire adorned with gadgets. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera –ar 3:2 –stylize 200 –v 6

Kiara's friends affectionately call her "Kee," a moniker that stuck due to its quick, friendly burst, mirroring the speed at which she works. This nickname distinctly separates her relaxed personal life from her professional persona. In social circles, "Kee" is known for her vibrant wit and is often the catalyst for adventurous nights in the Pulse District. Her easy camaraderie and infectious laugh make her a beloved figure in both her work and social spheres.

Kiara is known for her sharp intellect and innovative spirit, embodying the essence of Tavrin's cutting-edge atmosphere. Her dedication to her craft is matched only by her desire to push the boundaries of starship engineering. Outgoing and articulate, she navigates social situations with ease, her charisma making her as effective in a team as she is solo. Her empathy and teamwork reinforce Tavrin's communal ethos, while her problem-solving acumen ensures she thrives under pressure.

Kiara carries herself with a calm confidence, never rushed yet always moving with purpose. Her laughter is infectious, and her presence commands attention without arrogance. In the workplace, her calm under pressure is legendary, solving crises with a cool head and steady hand. Outside of work, Kiara's warmth and genuine care for her friends shine through, making her a beacon of support. Her disposition is optimistic but measured, reflecting her balanced approach to life and work on Lira.

Kiara often peppers her language with starship jargon, making her conversations uniquely hers. Phrases like "Let's rocket through these numbers" when discussing work efficiency, or quipping "This looks like a supernova of an issue" when confronted with a particularly challenging problem are commonplace. During more lighthearted moments, she might say to friends, "Ready to comet-tee off into the night?" suggesting a spontaneous night out. Her distinctive speech charms her colleagues and adds an extraterrestrial flair to her interactions.

Kiara’s quirks become more pronounced in social settings. She has a habit of tapping complex rhythms with her fingers when deep in thought, a product of her passion for the musicality of Lira. When excited, she'll often spiral into tech tangents, explaining the minutiae of starship engines to amused and sometimes bewildered friends. Her hearty laugh, known to echo across the room, disarms and charms, pulling others into her world of enthusiasm and wonder.

Recently, Kiara has been engrossed in developing an innovative starship propulsion system that harnesses dark energy, aiming to revolutionize space travel efficiency. This bleeding-edge project, if successful, could lead to unprecedented leaps in interstellar exploration speeds. The work, both complex and exhilarating, has her collaborating closely with her diverse team to solve intricate engineering puzzles. Kiara's dedication and ingenuity are indispensable in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of starship engineering.

To compose a dialog between Arynn and Kiara, I took the above text, along with the equivalent snippets about Arynn and added appropriate instructions for the AI. Here’s the result.

One evening, while on assignment in Tavrin, Arynn found herself relaxing in a local bar. While there, she had a chance encounter with Kiara that precipitated a most interesting and intriguing conversation. As a science fiction novelist, please craft this dialog. It should be both intense and humorous.

Arynn sat at the bar, swirling a luminescent cocktail, the colors shifting like the nebulae of her next story. The liquid light flickered in her eyes as the door slid open, admitting a figure whose presence seemed to cause a subtle but distinct ripple of recognition throughout the room.

Kiara, with her characteristic feline dexterity, weaved through the crowd, a helmet tucked under one arm. She slid onto the stool beside Arynn, nodding to the bartender before catching sight of the Sylphine's notepad.

Kiara's lips curled into a playful smile. "Working hard or hardly working, Ari?"

Arynn glanced over, a smirk on her face. "In search of truth or fixing the truth of an engine, Kee?"

"The latter, though truth be told, I'm never off duty. What brings you to this corner of the stars?" Kiara asked, her tail flicking with interest.

"I'm unraveling the threads of Tavrin's tech narrative. And that tale, I suspect, could use a starship engineer's insight," Arynn said, tapping her notepad with a slender finger.

Kiara chuckled. "I see. Well, shoot your questions, but I warn you, I'm full of star-studded secrets."

"Perfect. Because I've heard whispers of dark energy propulsion. That's one cosmic can of worms, isn't it?" Arynn leaned in closer, her wings fluttering with excitement.

Kiara raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. "Let's just say we're rocketing past what's deemed possible. But tell me, Ari, do your stories ever take flight, or do they just hover, tethered to the ground?"

Arynn laughed. "Oh, they soar, Kee. Higher than your ships, I'd wager."

The two bantered, their laughter mingling with the ambient hum of the bar. Arynn's questions probed deeper, yet always with a lightness that made Kiara want to reveal more than she intended.

Kiara found herself sharing details of her work, couching the complexities in metaphors of cosmic adventures and celestial mishaps. Arynn interjected with quick-witted quips, drawing parallels to the societal impacts of such technologies.

As the evening wore on, the conversation between Arynn and Kiara deepened, dancing between profound revelations and bursts of laughter.

Arynn leaned in, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "So, Kee, is it true what they say about dark energy? That it's as temperamental as a comet in a gravitational field?"

Kiara nodded sagely, a mock-serious look on her face. "More unpredictable than the nightlife in Pulse District. One minute you're cruising; the next, you're in a tailspin."

"I'll have to include that. A cautionary tale for the starry-eyed dreamer," Arynn mused, scribbling notes.

Kiara tapped her anti-gravity boots on the floor, a rhythmic pattern that seemed to mirror her thoughts. "Just don't paint me as the mad scientist. My lab coat's not nearly white enough for that."

"Never," Arynn assured her. "You're the maverick engineer with the universe at her fingertips."

"And you're the daring reporter, unafraid to float where others fear to tread," Kiara retorted, raising her glass in a toast.

Their glasses clinked, the sound resonating with the promise of newfound friendship and mutual respect.

As the night drew to a close, Arynn floated ever so slightly above her stool, her attention wholly on Kiara's final anecdote. Kiara, energized by the Sylphine's intrigue, gestured grandly, nearly knocking over a tray of drinks with an animated swing of her arm.

"By the silent Harmonies, careful there!" Arynn exclaimed, laughter lacing her voice as she steadied the tray with a swift gust of wind.

Kiara chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "I suppose I should stick to starships. They're less likely to spill."

Arynn closed her notepad, her story now infused with the vibrancy of their interaction. "Thank you, Kee. Tonight's been more enlightening than a supernova."

Kiara stood, donning her helmet with a flourish. "Anytime, Ari. And who knows? Maybe one day you'll write about a starship named after you."

With a final wave, Kiara exited the bar, leaving Arynn to ponder the vast tapestry of lives and stories swirling through the cosmos, each one a thread in the narrative she was eager to weave.

Humorous? Not really. Intense? No. Sure, the writing was laced with descriptive metaphors and adjectives. But it was rather clichéd. And didn’t really tell a very interesting story. Not my style of writing, to be sure. And that’s often the problem with AI. It just doesn’t write very gripping prose. It also refuses to use profanity which can often be the source of humor. The above snippet is an almost textbook example of why you probably don’t want AI to write actual stories and dialogs for you.

AI story writing is, however, something we’ll explore further in the next chapter. There are a few situations and conditions in which it can be useful.

Until next time, I hope you enjoy creating characters of your own!