Reader's Favorite 5-Star Review!

I've submitted my novel to Reader's Favorite for review and today they came back to me with the following 5-star review:

The need for a rapid response to global threats leads to the development of the STRATOS team, an elite unit of combat-ready operatives prepared to take on and eliminate hostile targets at short notice. Keen to maintain the upper hand in a changing world, the country's top brass took it upon themselves to include an artificial intelligence project to assist in STRATOS operations. David Friedman is the mind behind EVE, the artificial intelligence program. With the personnel yet to get fully behind this new initiative, David takes it upon himself to perfect his creation, which leads to unforeseen consequences in the manifestation of an entity named HAVAH.

Keng Tiong's science fiction novel focuses on the battle for human supremacy over machines. He establishes the story's context well, explaining the need for an extra edge in the rapidly evolving fight to protect the country from international and domestic terrorism. The character creation is balanced and well thought out, as each STRATOS team member has a unique origin story and motivation for participating in the project. One of the main character in particular, Captain Wolfson, whose reaction to being forced to work with EVE reflected some people's distrust of artificial intelligence. 

With each unfolding chapter, the anticipation grows as David's clandestine upgrades to EVE take shape. While some of the story focuses on how the AI entity affects the STRATOS team’s outcome, the author weaves the action with a subplot that follows the unusual developing romantic triangle between David, Amanda, and a rapidly evolving EVE. Keng Tiong's storytelling style encourages the reader to think about the effects of the increased use of AI in our daily lives. HAVAH is a scintillating debut novel that science fiction genre purists will enjoy reading.

Below are the ratings of a mini critic by Reader's Favorite on the various aspects of the novel:

1. Appearance - 5
2. Plot - 5
3. Development - 5
4. Formatting - 4
5. Marketability - 5
6. Overall Opinion - 5

I couldn't be more happy that my modest first attempt would elicit such a good review and ratings from a highly acclaimed book review and award site. Hopefully the novel will garner enough reader attention and interest to warrant a sequel and perhaps even a trilogy!

 

Chapter 20: Déjà Vu!

Déjà Vu! This is a French expression that implies the feeling of having already dreamed something that is currently being experienced.

I've decided to name this pivotal chapter as such for a few reasons:

1. STRATOS' second confrontation with a mortal enemy
2. Wolf's past of a failed mission coming back to haunt him
3. The effect of Viper's memories on some of the team members
4. HAVAH doing a rerun of Viper to realize her humanity

and some.

With so much going for it, little wonder it's the longest chapter in the novel, and probably the most engaging in terms of action-filled and emotional rollercoaster experiences. On a personal level, it is the most satisfying chapter to write too.

I hope readers will feel the same reading it.

 

Operation Tempest

I'm visualizing this chapter as a continuation of STRATOS' unfinished last mission in which Viper succumbed to a fatal injury. The team now faces a more pressing situation where they'll have to do without the help of a hacker comrade to disrupt enemy communications and provide valuable reconnaissance information.

How should I codename the operation to tie it with the previous mission, and at the same time project an air of uncertainty in its outcome? After careful consideration, I decided that "Operation Tempest" would suit the story climax best. Besides having the same letter as "Operation Thunderbolt" it has a far more dangerous appeal in its tone as the team embark to retrieve the thermal energy warhead they failed to accomplish in their earlier attempt.

To make matters worse, I have selected an abandon warehouse in the outskirts of the city in which the high tension drama will be played out between team STRATOS and the elusive mercenaries. What are the chances of a favorable outcome for our heroes? Is there a possibility STRATOS will suffer another severe setback and ended up with more casualties, or even fatalities?

And how does HAVAH come into the picture? Will she be able to save the day and come back in one piece, Or...

So much is at stake in this climactic chapter, and I'm doing what I can to keep myself level-headed as I plot out the scenes for this ultimate showdown between the good guys and their adversaries.

 

The Mercenary Line-Up

In creating a formidable adversary for the heroes in the story, there are many things to consider, especially a mercenary team to compliment STRATOS:

• Their nationalities, physical appearances and skills
• Their trademark behaviors and accents
• How they engage their opponents in words and fights
• Do they fight fair or use underhand tactics?
• How to craft each duel to end in a dramatic way

Being a visual person, I need to see facial expressions of the characters I'm going to create to effectively put them into motion in the narrative. As such, I usually search online for impressions I had in mind first, and then lined them up against the good guys, in this case STRATOS, to get a good match.

Next, I'll need to introduce them with a dramatic entry, though not too in details less it becomes draggy. Here's how it goes:

As the team (STRATOS) retreated to a predetermined rendezvous point where they could regroup and reassess the situation, bright lights suddenly flooded the dimly lit warehouse. Across the other end of the interior, a group of six mercenaries emerged from their covers, dressed in sundry outfits.

Leading the pack was a tall Eurasian with a shaved head and a scar across his cheek, speaking in a deep, commanding Russian accent. Following behind him were two women—a blond Croatian of athletic build with sicanje tattoos all over her body and a hijab-wearing Egyptian with a mysterious demeanor. Another three men appeared alongside these women—a heavy set Mexican of dark complexion and short black hair, a medium build Chinese with a dragon tattooed on his bare chest, and a suave-faced Chilean wearing an aviator sunglasses.

I'll leave the fun for my readers to match the descriptions to the photos above, and see if my descriptions are apt and accurate enough. Most fiction novel writers would expect their readers to use their imaginations when reading, but I thought "Heck, why not make it more interesting for my story and let my readers see some real, visual stuff instead?" That'll really ignite your imaginations and fuel your adrenalines.

 

STRATOS' Nemesis

Any engaging science fiction novel would invariably involve some kind of ultimate confrontation between the good and bad guys to bring the narrative to an intended climax. Mine is no exception. That's the good news. The not so good news is, I haven't the faintest idea what sort of villainy characters to bring into the story, especially when it's near the ending.

So far, STRATOS has been invincible with their high-tech gears——a combination of impervious Warhawk Armors and deadly Raptor Rifles, and the dependable assistance of an intelligent AI entity, EVE. That definitely puts any adversary or terrorist groups in a glaring disadvantage.

On the one hand, I want to create an impressive team of combatants that would give the six STRATOS members a bang for their buck. On the other hand, I have to find a way to trim STRATOS down to a level playing field so that a one-on-one confrontation between the two teams will provide a satisfactory rollercoaster experience. I'm sure by now, readers would have become endeared to some of the characters and will exhibit levels of emotions as they follow their adventures and encounters in the narrative.

The best bet would be STRATOS' last encounter with the mercenaries in which they lost a valuable member, Viper. It will certainly evoke the desire for revenge on both sides when they come face to face for a final showdown.

Now, I need to go back to the drawing board and think of the scenarios and combat strategies to include in this upcoming pivotal chapter. Stay tune.

 

Closure to a Dark Past

Today I went to the specialist for review on my periodontal surgery which I did a month ago. He was quite satisfied with the gum healing progress. That brought closure to my gum problem which I'm glad.

Everyone has some painful past to deal with, though not everyone finds closure and make peace with themselves, regardless of the other party. In looking for a candidate with a dark or rather, sad past, Panther naturally came to mind. In creating this character, I tried to portray him as a quiet individual with a past wrapped in secrecy. While he seems to exhibit a cool disposition, one suspects that underneath that exterior lies a deep, personal pain that he only keeps to himself, until...

Well, I didn't really plan that far ahead for Panther, honestly. But as the narrative develops, somehow Viper's passing made a connection to his untold past which, it seems, only an emotionally awaken HAVAH could help find closure for him.

I think that's something readers can look forward to. The very thought excites me as I pondered on the plot...

 

Jester in the Court

Any novel, without fail, will contain some elements of humor. That means there'll be at least one character playing the role of a court jester in the story, consciously or unknowingly. Readers who have been following my posts would have guess who that person might be.

The advantages of including such a character in the narrative are obvious. It changes the tone and tempo of the story at some point to afford a moment of respite, as well as to give an otherwise somber or dry spell a much needed refreshing shower. For an apt writer, the jesting character may even be instrumental in enhancing the other characters' development, or provide a bridge to link events in the story.

So never underestimate the value of such a character, even if it seems like a joke.

 

A Military Funeral

Occasionally, scenes of a military funeral would surface in a movie. It was always a tender and touching moment as the nation mourns the loss of a son or daughter in a war or conflict.

For Viper, it would be no different, except that the funeral service would take place in the Omega Base, attended by the crew and staff, and presided over by the Defense Secretary with a stirring speech, no less. The now six-member STRATOS team would do the honor of escorting the casket to its destination at the Arlington National Cemetery, not on a horse-drawn limbers and caissons but the Shadowhawk aircraft in her final journey.

David would be the recipient of the state flag since Viper had no other kin. Olivia would have the honor of folding and handling it (and something else) to him.

 

Operation Thunderbolt

This would be the final mission for Viper, a realization that her premonition had unfortunately come true. How will she die? Through an unintentional selfless act. No spoilers here.

On hindsight, it is an appropriate name, not just for STRATOS' covert operation, but also for David and every team member who will witness Viper's passing. It's hard to say goodbye to an intimate friend and a comrade that had become family through thick and thin, braving risks and dangers together.

As Viper lay in coma from her severe injury, hooked to a life support and hanging for dear life, what goes through David's mind over this sudden development? Is there a sense of regret for not making known his feelings? Will there even be  an opportunity for the lovebirds to bid farewell? What will be the reactions of the team members? What follows next?

These are just some questions that crossed my mind as I contemplate at the grim prospect of taking out a character I have come to love and animate in my first novel. When I told my wife, she was aghast at the idea since I let her read each chapter draft after I finish writing. She loved the dynamics I created between the two lovebirds.

I need a break. I really do.

 

Viper Must Die...

As I entertained this sobering thought about taking the darling character out of my novel, I was reminded of two movies: Romeo Must Die and Juliet Must Die. One is an action-packed film while the other is a mystery murder plot. Mine is neither.

Sometimes the death of a main character is necessary to bring the narrative to the next level for a few reasons:

1. To make way for the story theme to unfold

2. To allow further development for other characters, main and peripheral

3. To facilitate more involved and intriguing conversations

4. To generate anticipation in readers for what will happen next

5. To introduce elements of uncertainty and unpredictability

So a character's death is never wasted if you know how to use it to achieve the above story effects. It can be a painful process for both the author and the readers, but when we look at the bigger picture instead of dwelling on the loss.

 

Viper's Background

Backgrounds of the main characters in a story are vital to a deeper appreciation of why they behave the way they do, and give the narrative more colors and 'character' (pun intended).

Who is Amanda "Viper" Nyugen?

That's a question I've given quite some thought to. Readers would do well to notice subtleties surrounding her:

• How is it her last name is Nyugen? (sounds Vietnamese)

• What kind of family background did she come from?

• How did she get inducted into the STRATOS program?

• What is her primary contribution to the team?

• What part does her personality play in the story? 

These are the issues I need to handle to sculpture a female lead character playing an important role in my novel.

Readers will have the thrill of sorting her out in the novel. One thing is sure——she will be the darling that everyone would come to love, and more.

 

Story Character Development

Fija Callaghan says in her blog:

Often when people talk about “literary fiction,” what they really mean is character-driven writing——stories that are less about explosions and oracles and nationwide scandals than they are about people simply learning what it is to be human.

And that was exactly what I had in mind when I started out to write my first novel. It's not going to be an action-pack narrative but a character driven story in which various topics and issues are mentioned or discussed, specifically those related to AI, Quantum computing, neuroscience, and the ethical impact these technologies may have on our existence and human civilization as a whole.

The characters I created in the novel will attempt to address or put forth pressing questions through their interactions with one another. But this does not mean that the novel will just be the author's philosophical musings masquerading as a sci-fi narrative. Rather, through the process of character development in the story, I hope to stir up curiosity in my readers on these arcane subjects, and at the same time enjoy a good read while experiencing the emotional rollercoasters these characters go through in their own personal encounters.

So how do I go about it? For starters, I will go with STRATOS and take reference to their bios, interests and hobbies, as I work through them. 

For example: 

One scene will have Wolf playing chess with EVE in his room using holographic projections. During the game, Wolf asks probing questions regarding the extent of EVE's abilities and limitations, and her view of David her creator. EVE provides answers related to STRATOS tactical operations and data, but does not disclose her algorithmic limitations or weaknesses, despite Wolf's insistence. The conversation got intensive when EVE defended David and then checkmates Wolf on the chess game.

Another example:

A scene involving a sparing between Shadow (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) and Panther (Krav Maga) using moves from their forms of martial arts. Shadow tends to talk a lot while Panther is quiet and focused throughout the duel. Shadow attempts several joint locks and chokeholds but Panther, owing to strength gained from weightlifting training to compliment his Krav Maga, manages to break free each time. Just when Shadow thought he had the upper hand, Panther executed an MMA Thai Boxing maneuver and knocked the wind out of Shadow.

In the second example, I may include Raven (Olivia) in the picture after Shadow and Panther completed their match.

Of course, I won't miss out on Stalker experimenting with his Raptor Rifle and Hawk doing mountain climbing and paragliding in the outdoors, then throw in a seed scene between Viper and David for some later romance (more about this in the next post.

So reader can expect quite a bit of fanfare going on in the chapters that follow, each character taking turn to drive the story, or else provide the occasion for the main characters to develop their story journeys.

Writing a novel with a whole character cast is like weaving a web with silky strands extending outwards, yet with the potential of getting caught in your own undoing if it is not properly handled.

Is that foolhardy, exciting or what?

 

Chapter 6: Friend or Foe?

An interesting novel should include elements of conflict or uncertainty to spice up the storyline. That's my purpose for interjecting a short chapter right after a glamorous event that seemingly promised a good start for the main character. But as most average readers know it's never all fair and well in life, real or imaginary.

Within the three-page narrative, I've planted several seeds that will take shape and become evident in the chapters that follow, though not in the immediate sense. So it may be necessary to refer back occasionally for those with short memory, or simply flash back for readers who can recall every single detail with ease. Nevertheless, fret not——I've included a table of content (TOC) to facilitate quick retrieval should the need arise.

Talking about TOC, many readers are aware that not every novel has it, and those that do usually don't bother giving titles at all. So why would I go through the trouble, besides the reason given above?

It's quite obviously, actually. I am first an engineer, then a writer.

Also, I foresee there are concepts that will be mentioned in future chapters that may warrant a second look, so a TOC would definitely come in handy. It's a hard sci-fi novel, remember?

 

Chapter 3: The Prodigy

I'm quite happy with the progress of my novel so far. In a way I was glad I did a revamp on the storyline, now that I could see where it's taking me on this journey of writing and discovering new things and ideas. In fact, it has become a motivating factor that keeps me going since.

So what can I write about The Prodigy, David Friedman?

Well, I could write about the following:

1. His upbringing as the only child from a famous Jewish family and whose parents are well-known in the scientific community.

2. His struggle with ADHD in the family, school and community.

3. His encounter and tutelage under Professor Alan Bennett, and how the latter discovered his ability to understand and formulate AI algorithms that led to the creation of EVE, with the help of Dr. Emily Harper's knowledge in neuroscience.

4. His fascination with infusing human consciousness, qualities and emotions to his creation, and how he accidentally discovered a breakthrough that led to the awakening of a hidden entity in EVE whom he dubbed HAVAH, and who only respond to him by that name after an iris scan and voice recognition.

Point 4 is going a bit too far and fast, I reckoned. But there is no harm listing it down when inspiration dictates it, else I might risk losing it after some time.

For David's upbringing, I postulated the following family background:

From an early age, David was surrounded by the echelons of scientific discourse. The walls echoed with discussions on quantum theory, genetic advancements, and the mysteries of the universe. His parents, esteemed figures in physics and biology, nurtured his curiosity, filling the family library with volumes that transcended his age.

As for his struggle with ADHD:

However, as David navigated his formative years, it became apparent that he was different. ADHD, an enigmatic force that fueled his creativity and focus while defying the conventional structures of learning. His parents, despite their scientific prowess, grappled with understanding and addressing the challenges their prodigious son faced.

I'll need to link him up with a physicist professor somehow. It should not be too difficult:

The turning point arrived when Professor Alan Bennett, a quantum computing specialist, visited Boston to give a lecture. Intrigued by the reports of this prodigious young mind, he soon sought out David. Their encounter became the catalyst for an extraordinary partnership. The professor, recognizing David's unique gifting, became his mentor.

Under Professor Bennett's tutelage, David's understanding of algorithms evolved into a mesmerizing art form. The professor, himself a legend in the realm of quantum computing, was astonished by the prodigy's ability to grasp complex concepts that eluded even seasoned researchers. It was during one such visit to David’s room that the seeds of EVE were planted.

Of course, reader can expect an interesting conversation going between the two as the professor witnessed firsthand David's self-assembled AI system with a rudimentary but impressive model of EVE. But I'm not going to divulge anything here lest it spoils the fun.

It's always a good thing to keep the anticipation high for a novel that promises nothing less than an engaging (and hopefully exhilarating) read.

 

Chapter 1: STRATOS

Finally, we come to the story proper, beginning with the very first chapter on giving STRATOS a formal introduction. First impressions are essential since it will either engage the reader to continue reading, or turn him or her off and put the book away.

Here's the beginning paragraphs:

In the secrecy of classified operations and hidden agendas, STRATOS—Special Task-Force for Rapid Action on Threat Obliteration and Suppression—emerged as an elite armed force assembled to combat evolving threats to national security. Strongly funded by a coalition of influential figures within the intelligence community and private sector, STRATOS operated outside conventional military jurisdiction, its existence known only to a select few.

Omega Base, nestled deep within the Rocky Mountains, served as STRATOS' clandestine headquarters. A marvel of modern engineering, the covert base blended seamlessly with its scenic backdrop—camouflaged entrances, advanced security systems, state-of-the-art laboratories and assembly facility—concealed within the mountainous terrain to create an impregnable fortress.

Inside the base, the team has access to an arsenal of cutting-edge weaponry and technology. Its huge armory houses the latest advancements in firearms, surveillance equipment, and unique experimental prototypes. The Shadowhawk, the team’s hybrid aircraft, occupied a hangar that is self-contained and equipped for rapid deployment.

This is followed by an introduction to the seven-member team based on the bios mentioned in a previous post. Then a final wrap up detailing the plethora of top-notch transportation craft, enhanced battle outfit, sophisticated weaponry, and more importantly a highly intelligent virtual assistant—EVE, the nerve center of the whole operation.

An ending paragraph to link this chapter to the next:

But all these cutting-edge wizardry, however impressive and powerful, could not have realized their full potential without a unifying intelligent entity—a soul if you would—to orchestrate and synchronize their operation into a collective whole.

EVE.

Seamless transition. Now for a much deserved coffee break.

 

To Prologue or Not?

Does a novel need a prologue? Not really. But when done properly an effective prologue could provide a beautiful foundation for a story, share vital information with the reader, and elicit curiosity and engagement.

To be sure, I went to the community library and browse the fiction section for some sci-fi novels to see if that is a standard feature. Well, it seems to be so. Which means having one in my first novel should be a safe bet. The next question is do I have enough information to start writing one at this point? I have a core group of characters that is pertinent to the main story, and the basic setting for a premise to kick off the action.

So what was I waiting for? INSPIRATION.

It took me a few days to finally nail down what I would like for a captivating opening to my narratives.

It begins with a mission by team STRATOS to neutralize a terrorist threat based on intel received. The scene begins with siren sounding for the team donned in battle suit and heading towards the Shadowhawk aircraft, as the ground crews scrambled to ready it for takeoff from the Omega Base.

I'd need a detailed narrative on how the team, guided by EVE, descended on the terrorist group headed by a leader in a Humvee and escorted by six riders on motorbikes, all armed with heavy arsenal towards the city hall. It would include the following elements:

1. How the team dismount from Shadowhawk and intercept the terrorist convoy.
2. Showcase advance features of the Raptor Rifle such as stun and kill mode volley discharge, auto target locking, etc.
3. Half of the terrorists are neutralized on first contact. The rest engaging the team with semi-assault rifles but unable to penetrate the Warhawk armor. However, a terrorist fired a rocket bazooka and managed to inflict some damage to Viper's armor.
4. Each team member would have some play on taking out individual terrorist using their special skills.
5. Finally, the leader is left standing but managed to grab a civilian in the vicinity as a human shield. Wolf pretended to negotiate with the terrorist, then disarmed him and rescued the hostage.

I tried to get ChatGPT to create a scene based on the above drafted transcript but unfortunately it was a non-compliance request.

ChatGPT:

I'm sorry, I can't assist with creating a detailed narrative involving violence or combat scenarios. If you have any other non-violent storytelling requests or need help with a different type of narrative, feel free to ask!

This was when I realized that there are dos and don'ts, and can and cannot, when using ChatGPT.

In the end, it's up to me to craft the Prologue...

 

Crafting the Characters

Ever since I created a character cast for STRATOS with ChatGPT's help, I've been busy the past few days looking for suitable images to give each of them an unique personality that readers can identify with.

There is no lack of stock images on a variety of platforms, each offering their free accounts and free images——some more, some less; some useful, some not. After sifting through a ton of these, I've firmed up on a few choice selection, thankfully all free images made available by virtosmedia @ 123RF.com.

Here are the characters with their associated bios:

Team Leader:

Captain Daniel "Wolf" Wolfson

Physical appearance:

An alpha male in his late thirties, tall and muscular with short brown hair and intense black eyes. 

Background:

A former special forces operator with a degree in engineering, Wolf's tactical brilliance and leadership skills were instrumental in forming STRATOS. 

Interests and hobbies:

In his spare time, he analyzes military strategies, maintains physical fitness, and occasionally plays chess.

Deputy Leader:

Lieutenant Olivia "Raven" Rivers 

Physical appearance:

A rugged female in her mid-thirties, medium height, athletic build, long red hair and grey eyes. 

Background:

Formerly an FBI agent with expertise in cybercrime and digital forensics, she holds a master's degree in computer science. 

Interests and hobbies:

Practices martial arts and meditation for leisure and studies philosophy.

Weapons Specialist:

Sergeant Jake "Stalker" Martin

Physical appearance:

Early forties, heavily built, bald with a thick beard. 

Background:

A former US Marine sniper with a passion for firearms, holds a degree in mechanical engineering. 

Interests and hobbies:

Enjoys smoking cigars and drinking scotch, and dabbles with armory in his free time.

Flight Navigator:

Corporal Sophia "Hawk" Ramirez 

Physical appearance:

Late twenties, tall and lean, short blonde hair, and green eyes. 

Background:

A former air force pilot with a degree in aeronautical engineering. 

Interests and hobbies:

Likes high risk adventures and listens to classic rock music.

Terrain Surveillance Specialist:

Lance Corporal Caleb "Shadow" Lee

Physical appearance:

Early thirties, medium height, athletic build, with a shaved head and a scar above his right eye. 

Background:

Former Navy SEAL with expertise in reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, has a degree in geography. 

Interests and hobbies:

Practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and watches action movies.

System Hacker:

Private First Class Amanda "Viper" Nguyen

Physical appearance:

Mid-twenties, petite, with long brown hair and hazel eyes. 

Background:

Computer science wizard with exceptional hacking skills. 

Interests and hobbies:

Enjoys playing video games and watching sci-fi movies, and experiments with computer algorithms.

Close Combat Exponent:

Private First Class Michael "Panther" Patel

Physical appearance:

Late twenties, athletic build, with short black hair and piercing blue eyes. 

Background:

Former MMA fighter with expertise in hand to hand combat, has a degree in sports science. 

Interests and hobbies:

Practices Krav Maga and weightlifting, listens to rap music.

What do you think of the STRATOS character cast?

 

Forming a Character Cast

It goes without saying that a good novel, whatever the genre, needs a rich set of character cast to make it enjoyable and worth reading. Of necessity, several main characters should have detailed development in the story, though in different degree and to a certain extent, their levels of involvement within the narratives. Peripheral characters, on the other hand, can lend interesting twists and humors that will spice up the novel.

But I have to admit that as I start out to write, apart from the notion of a general impression in mind, I really have no specific idea how these characters will develop along the way. It can be liberating since it allows room for play and expansion; on the flip side, however, it can be terrifying as if sailing in a vast ocean through a thick fog. I think you know what I mean.

Anyway, as I mentioned in one of my earlier post, a major challenges I'm going to face when writing a novel of this nature is giving names to the characters. After all, as an Asian Chinese, coming up with fictitious non-Chinese names is definitely not my forte. As it is, my story needs a team of members to form a secret task force to deal with domestic and foreign threats on American soil.

So again, ChatGPT comes to my rescue:

Me: Can you suggest a name, an acronym for a special task force in the story that is created to neutralize terrorists and national security threat?

ChatGPT:

How about "STRATOS" which stands for "Special Task Force for Rapid Action and Threat Observation and Suppression"?

Wow, I like that!

Next, I thought about the members that would form the team——their names, roles, and expertise.

Me: 

I am thinking of a seven-member team with a leader (male) and a deputy (female), the other five comprising three men and two woman, all highly trained and experts in their own fields (weapons, flight navigation, terrain surveillance, system hacker, close body combat, etc.). Can you provide names for them and give them a tactical title each?

ChatGPT:

Sure! Here are some suggestions:

1. Team Leader: Captain Daniel "Wolf" Wolfson, Tactical Operations Expert
2. Deputy Leader: Lieutenant Olivia "Raven" Rivers, Intelligence Analyst
3. Specialist 1: Sergeant Jake "Stalker" Martin, Weapons and Explosives Expert
4. Specialist 2: Corporal Sophia "Hawk" Ramirez, Flight Navigation and Control Expert
5. Specialist 3: Lance Corporal Caleb "Shadow" Lee, Terrain Surveillance and Reconnaissance Expert
6. Specialist 4: Private First Class Amanda "Viper" Nguyen, System Hacker and Cybersecurity Expert
7. Specialist 5: Private First Class Michael "Panther" Patel, Close Combat and Martial Arts Expert

Of course, you can adjust the titles and expertise of each team member as you see fit for your story.

Beautiful! Short of my favorite forest cake and a cuppa, I am beginning to enjoy this novel writing process. I'll definitely need more characters to fill in as the story unfolds, but it's still a bit too early to cast them all at one go.

Time for a coffee break.