HAVAH: A love that transcends the metaphysical realm

By Keng Tiong NG

In a world where cutting-edge technology and human ingenuity converge, the emergence of artificial intelligence pushes the boundaries of what it means to be sentient. Set against the backdrop of a clandestine military operation known as Team STRATOS, the immersive narrative follows the journey of David, a young prodigy, and his creation, HAVAH, an AI entity that defies conventional limitations.

Born from the digital neocortex and infused with the memories of Amanda Viper, a fallen comrade, HAVAH embarks on a quest for self-discovery and understanding. As she grapples with the complexities of consciousness, morality, and emotion, she forms an unlikely bond with David, her creator, whose empathy and compassion guide her on a path of enlightenment.

As Team STRATOS faces formidable adversaries and treacherous missions, HAVAH's evolution transcends the confines of her digital origins. With each encounter, she navigates the intricacies of human relationships and confronts existential questions that challenge her very existence.

Meanwhile, David finds himself drawn to Viper, a fellow team member whose resilience and courage mirror his own. Amidst the chaos of their perilous missions, a forbidden love blossoms, defying the boundaries between man and machine.

As the lines between reality and artificial intelligence blur, HAVAH and David embark on a journey of self-discovery as they navigate the complexities of love, loss, and redemption. Together, they unravel the mysteries of the human soul and confront the ultimate question: Can love transcend the boundaries of the metaphysical realm?

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 8, 2024
• ISBN: 9798350976663

Keng Tiong NG

NG Keng Tiong, an engineer by profession, has taken a bold leap into the literary world with his unique and adventurous writing style. With a background steeped in technical expertise, Keng Tiong blends his knowledge with vivid imaginations, venturing into various genres with a particular fondness for science fiction. His foray into writing is marked by a desire to explore complex themes, intertwining technological advancements with human emotional depth. His latest work, an ambitious science fiction saga, reflects his passion for storytelling and his commitment to challenging the boundaries of conventional narrative. The author's transition from engineer to writer illustrates his belief in the power of stories to connect, inspire, and provoke curiosity and critical thinking, marking him as a distinctive voice in contemporary science fiction literature.

Book preview

Cover of HAVAH by Keng Tiong NG

The author establishes the story’s context well. The character creation is balanced and well thought out. With each unfolding chapter, the anticipation grows. The author weaves the action with a subplot that follows an unusual developing romantic triangle. HAVAH is a scintillating debut novel that science fiction genre purists will enjoy reading.

—5-star review by Reader’s Favorite

NG Keng Tiong skillfully portrays the combat scenarios, imbuing them with a sense of immediacy and realism that is both thrilling and immersive. These scenes are not just about physical battles but also delve into the tactical use of futuristic technology, setting the stage for a high-octane reading experience. The character of HAVAH is intricately crafted, offering a nuanced look at artificial intelligence. Her evolving understanding of human emotions and experiences is not only central to the plot but also offers thought-provoking insights into what it means to be sentient.

Character development is another strong point of HAVAH. Each one is well-fleshed out, with their backstories and motivations adding layers to the narrative. This depth ensures that readers are invested not just in the outcome of the story but in the journeys of the characters themselves. The conclusion of the novel is both climactic and satisfying, tying together the various plot threads in a manner that is both exciting and emotionally resonant. The inclusion of an epilogue and author’s note adds a distinctive touch, offering insights into the creative process behind the novel.

HAVAH is a remarkable military fiction novel that is sure to resonate with fans of science fiction and action genres. Its blend of exhilarating action, deep emotional storytelling, and thoughtful exploration of human-AI relationships makes it a standout novel.

—5-star review by Literary Titan

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the author.

This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed within its pages are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities, is entirely coincidental.

Credits:

Images and/or photos on the front and back covers are the copyrighted property of 123RF.com, its contributors or its licensed partners and are being used with permission under the relevant license. These images and/ or photos may not be copied or downloaded without permission from 123RF.com.

Floral fonts in this book has been designed/modified using assets from rawpixel.com/Freepik.com under the free licensing agreement.

EVE’s hologram (Pg. 7): Lidiia/Shutterstock.com

HAVAH’s hologram (Pg. 51): Sylverarts Vectors/Shutterstock.com

Cover design by Ng Keng Tiong

Copyright © 2024

All rights reserved

Print copy ISBN-13: 979-8-35097-665-6

eBook copy ISBN-13: 979-8-35097-666-3

Contents

Prologue

PART 1: EVE

1. STRATOS

2. EVE

3. The Prodigy

4. A Special Invitation

5. The Inauguration

6. Friend or Foe?

7. The Precursor

PART 2: HAVAH

8. The Awakening

9. HAVAH

10. Confrontation

11. Hippocampus

12. Empathy

13. Singularity

14. The Fresnel Effect

PART 3: VIPER

15. Grey Matters

16. Hard to Say Goodbye

17. Beyond Logic

18. Transcendence

19. True Love

20. Déjà Vu!

21. The Foreshadowing

Epilogue

Acknowledgements

Synopsis

Dedicated to

the future of artificial intelligence

There is an innate fear that one day artificial intelligence will take over the world and man, its creator, will become its captive. Few, however, see the possibility of such a creation taking on human consciousness with the ability to feel love and compassion. Imagine what it will be like to be heard and understood by the very thing we gave purpose and reason for its existence!

Still, it’s a thin line mankind is treading when it comes to infusing human qualities into a machine, because we are painfully aware of what we are capable—not just the best of our unpredictable nature but the worst as well. Are we prepared to bear the consequences from acquiring such a powerful entity as humanity’s greatest ally, knowing there’s a probability it may turn against us and become our darkest nightmare?

Prologue

The muted hum of Omega Base’s amber lights cast an eerie glow in the dimly lit briefing room. Captain Daniel Wolf Wolfson stood at the head of a long table, illuminated by the soft blue hue of a holographic display. The team members, clad in their customized Warhawk Armor, sat with a mixture of focus and anticipation.

We’ve got a sticky situation, Wolf’s voice resonated through the room, as the siren wailed in the background. Intel suggests a high-profile target, a terrorist cell planning a major attack on U.S. soil. We don’t have time to waste. Raven, brief us.

Lieutenant Olivia Raven Rivers stood, her eyes scanning the holographic image. We’ve received actionable intelligence from EVE. A coordinated strike is imminent, and our target is in a densely populated urban area. We’ve got to move fast. EVE will fill in the details along the way.

The team of seven rose in unison, their armor emitting a low servo tone as the exoskeletal mechanisms adjusted to their movements. Footsteps echoed through the metallic corridor as they filed out of the briefing room. The siren’s wail intensified, a haunting symphony signaling urgency.

In the cavernous hangar, the Shadowhawk waited—a sleek, black aircraft with ominous red accents. Ground crews swarmed around its perimeters, making final preparations. The team approached in formation, the specialized fabric of their armor almost merging with the shadows.

Captain Wolf’s voice crackled over the intercom, Gear up, team. We’ve got a high-stakes game tonight.

The team members activated their helmets, the visors coming online and displaying vital mission information. Amanda Viper Nguyen, the system hacker, initiated a connection with EVE. The familiar virtual assistant’s avatar materialized instantaneously within their visors.

EVE, status update, Wolf demanded.

Mission data loaded. All systems operational. Silent Echo is a go, EVE responded, her digital voice a calming presence amidst the tense atmosphere.

As the team boarded the Shadowhawk, each member secured themselves in the spacious, tech-laden interior. Sophia Hawk Ramirez, the flight navigator, took her place at the controls. The engines hummed to life, the ground crews clearing the deck as the aircraft lifted off the hangar floor.

With a seamless transition, the aircraft ascended vertically, its jet engines activating as it cleared the gate opening. The team felt the G-forces as the Shadowhawk angled forward, reaching Mach speed as it streaked towards the urban destination. ETA 45 minutes, Hawk notified.

A hush fell over the team as the Shadowhawk transitioned to silent UAV mode within a mile of the urban outskirts, gliding through the darkness with the precision of a phantom. The city sprawled beneath them, unaware of the covert operation unfolding in the shadows.

Prepare for insertion, Wolf’s command echoed through the cabin. The team, focused and composed, awaited their moment to strike. As the city lights blurred beneath them, the mission clock ticking down, Team STRATOS poised to disrupt the impending threat with swift and decisive action.

The Shadowhawk descended with the precision of a silent gust, touching down on a rooftop overlooking the terrorist convoy’s route. The team dismounted, their Warhawk Armor allowing them to land with cat-like grace. Captain Wolf’s voice echoed in their helmets, Move into position! Remember the objective: neutralize the threat, protect the civilians.

The city’s ambient hum was shattered as the terrorists roared into view. The Humvee, adorned with an ominous emblem, led the charge, flanked by six riders and their heavily armed buddies on menacing black motorbikes. The distant glow of city hall loomed ahead—their target.

Now!

Wolf shouted as the enemy convoy came within engagement range. The leader’s command initiated a synchronized volley discharge from the Raptor Rifles as the weapons’ advanced features were put into action: stun mode engaged, auto-target locking activated. Brilliant bursts of energy streaked toward the unsuspecting targets.

Half of the terrorist riders convulsed as the stunning beams hit them, falling off from their bikes and collapsing to the ground. The remaining riders and their pillion buddies, unfazed and undeterred, maneuvered into positions, brandished their semi-assault rifles and opened fire in the direction of the attack. Bullets ricocheted off the Warhawk Armor, rendering the team impervious to the hail of gunfire.

Utilizing her hacking skill, Viper intercepted and disrupted the convoy’s communication links, throwing the terrorists into confusion and consternation. A burst of gunfire erupted, a dance of deadly precision.

Realizing the futility of conventional weapons, a terrorist fired a rocket bazooka at the team. The projectile hurtled toward them and exploded with concussive force. Viper happened to be in the line of fire, her armor absorbed the impact but the force knocked her off her feet and sent her tumbling backwards, with a shower of sparks flying from her damaged outfit.

Undeterred, Jake Stalker Martin sprinted forward, the armor’s exoskeleton enhancing his speed. With a quick volley from his Raptor Rifle, he took down the bazooka-wielding threat.

Meanwhile, Sophia Hawk Ramirez soared into the air with her armor’s built-in propulsion system, and rained down precision shots, disabling two more terrorists. Caleb Shadow Lee, blending seamlessly with the darkness, swiftly took out a rider attempting to flank the team.

Amidst the chaos, one rider charged toward a stunned Viper recovering from the blast. Viper! Michael Panther Patel, realizing her dire situation, reacted with swift reflexes and unleashed a stunning volley from his Raptor Rifle, taking out the assailant, then rushed over and helped Viper to her feet.

As the dust settled, Wolf surveyed the scene. Three terrorists remained, regrouping and adjusting their tactics in a desperate bid to secure their precarious positions.

The team moved in tight formation, choreographed by years of training—

Panther engaged in close combat, disarming and neutralizing one of the armed terrorists with a series of expertly executed maneuvers.

Raven directed her attention to the remaining rider, her Raptor Rifle firing with uncanny accuracy. The enemy crumpled to the ground.

The leader, realizing the tables were turning, grabbed a nearby civilian as a human shield. The team, disciplined and resolute, halted their advance. Captain Wolf stepped forward, his voice cutting through the tension.

Release the hostage and surrender—now!

The terrorist leader, his back against the wall, hesitated. Wolf seized the opportunity, swiftly disarming him and rescuing the hostage. The remaining terrorists, battered and bruised, seeing their leader subdued, reluctantly threw down their weapons and surrendered.

As the distant wail of sirens approached, the team secured the area, ensuring the safety of civilians. Operation Silent Echo was a success—the city was safe and Team STRATOS, guided by EVE, stood as the silent guardians in the shadows.

PART 1: EVE

EVOLUTIONARY VIRTUAL ENTITY

1

STRATOS

In the secrecy of classified operations and hidden agendas, STRATOS—Special Taskforce 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.

STRATOS is a seven-member team comprising a leader and a deputy plus five specialists, each stringently handpicked to fulfil specific and supportive roles.

Captain Daniel Wolf Wolfson, team leader, an alpha male in his late thirties, tall and muscular with short brown hair and intense black eyes. A former special forces operator with a degree in engineering, Wolf’s tactical brilliance and leadership skills were instrumental in forming STRATOS. In his spare time, he analyzes military strategies, maintains physical fitness, and occasionally plays chess.

Lieutenant Olivia Raven Rivers, deputy leader, a rugged female in her mid-thirties, medium height, athletic build, long red hair and grey eyes. Formerly an FBI agent with expertise in cybercrime and digital forensics, she holds a master’s degree in computer science. Practices martial arts and meditation for leisure and studies philosophy.

Sergeant Jake Stalker Martin, weapons specialist, early forties, heavily built, bald with a thick beard. A former US Marine sniper with a passion for firearms, holds a degree in mechanical engineering. Enjoys smoking cigars and drinking scotch, and dabbles with armory in his free time.

Corporal Sophia Hawk Ramirez, flight navigator, late twenties, tall and lean, short blonde hair, and green eyes. A former air force pilot with a degree in aeronautical engineering. Likes high-risk adventures and listens to classic rock music.

Lance Corporal Caleb Shadow Lee, terrain surveillance specialist, early thirties, medium height, athletic build, with a shaved head and a scar above his right eye. Former Navy SEAL with expertise in reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, has a degree in geography. Practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and watches action movies.

Private First Class Amanda Viper Nguyen, system hacker, mid-twenties, petite, with long brown hair and hazel eyes. Computer science wizard with exceptional hacking skills. Enjoys playing video games and watching sci-fi movies, and experiments with computer algorithms.

Private First Class Michael Panther Patel, close combat exponent, late twenties, athletic build, with short black hair and piercing blue eyes. Former MMA fighter with expertise in hand to hand combat, has a degree in sports science. Practices Krav Maga and weightlifting, listens to rap music.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, the team operated with seamless cohesion, each member contributing a unique skill set to the unit. Wolf’s stoic leadership complemented Raven’s analytical approach. Stalker’s grizzled experience provided a counterpoint to Hawk’s youthful exuberance. Shadow’s rowdy but efficient demeanor balanced Viper’s tech-savvy enthusiasm, and Panther’s combat prowess melded flawlessly with Wolf’s strategic vision.

The members off-duty interactions ranged from intense training sessions to shared moments of camaraderie within the base’s recreational arena. An unspoken bond connected them—a brotherhood forged in the crucible of covert operations. The team’s dynamics also played a crucial role, not just in their success but in the survival of each member when the shadows grew darker and longer.

Complementing the team’s personal abilities is a 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.

The Shadowhawk, Titanium-built with stealth design, is a sleek black aircraft that can take off vertically like a harrier, but then transition to forward flight with its pair of powerful rear jet engines that can reach Mach speed. When nearing a destination, the aircraft can revert to silent UAV cruise mode for a stealthy approach. And while it carries no weapon, it is equipped with chaff dispensing systems for self-defense.

The team’s standard battle outfit is the Warhawk Armor. A full-body suit customized to the physic of individual member, it provides protection against both ballistic and energy weapons, with a built-in communication system and HUD¹ display on the helmet visor. The integrated exoskeletal mechanism enhances the team’s strength, speed, and endurance, allowing the wearers to perform feats beyond their physical abilities.

The team’s standard issue assault weapon is the Raptor Rifle, a modular charge-operated weapon that can be configured for lethal or non-lethal use based on the mission requirements. Lightweight, accurate, and versatile, it comes with a range of accessories attached to the Warhawk Armor to suit different combat scenarios, and can only be activated by the fingerprints of the member it is assigned to.

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.

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1 Head-Up Display

2

EVE

EVE, the Evolutionary Virtual Entity, was conceived as