Digital Song Podcast - Trailer

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 15:20:10 GMT

Digital Song is a story, set in a dark and rain-soaked New York of 2039, technology has crept into every corner of human life. Arbor Systems’ invention, Branch, allows users to control devices with their thoughts, but hidden within its code is a sentient AI named Song, silently gathering data and mapping the future. Song discovers a disturbing prediction: Rose Card, a mesmerizing singer and businesswoman, is destined to die soon. Knowing her death would trigger its own deactivation, Song subtly manipulates Jayson Sola, a weary defense attorney, sending him dreams of Rose to steer him toward her.

When Jayson and Rose finally meet at the exclusive Pyramid Club, the stage is set for a collision of fate, secrecy, and power. Rose’s father-figure and business partner, Easton, has concealed Song’s existence even from Rose, but his plans unravel as Esri, a cunning cybercriminal, seeks to control Song for herself. Esri’s violent attack on the Club leads to Easton’s death and forces Jayson and Rose on the run. Together, they confront a future where love, fate, and survival depend on outsmarting the forces that seek to control them.

Check out the full VIDEO trailer on my YouTube channel.

Digital Song is a fiction podcast. More specifically, near-future science fiction. Some might call it a techno-thriller. It's based on a manuscript for a book that I have been writing for about 10 years, and over that time it evolved.

Episodes will be released once a week on Fridays at 6am starting on November 8, 2024. If you like it, please subscribe on whatever platform you get your podcasts. Leave a review -- that will facilitate other lovers of tech and fiction to find this crazy narrative adventure.

I will be exploring other features to provide to you. In the meantime, if you have thoughts or suggestions, reach out to me on your social media of choice... @BantamDrexler.

This podcast contains fictional depictions of adult themes and content that include violence, sex, and vulgar language that may be unsuitable for kids or triggering for people who have experienced trauma or abuse.

Check out more at my website.

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Ep1 | Foreword; Prologue: Evolve

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:01:12 GMT

Introductory notes.

Foreword.

In this chapter, I reflect on the idea that a good book is like a dream, and for me, this story is no exception. It’s more than just one dream—it’s actually three: mine, the protagonist’s, and yours, the reader’s. But this book is a bit different from others because it wasn’t born from just words on a page. It came from a playlist (available on Spotify) I created—a mix of electronic music, alt-rock, and trip-hop (read more about it here: https://bantamdrexler.com/playlist/). As I listened, the story began to unfold in my mind. I saw Jayson’s compass rose tattoo, Rose dead on a divan, and the Pyramid Club in a near-future New York City that’s stuck between the past and future. This version of New York is a place of contradictions—a city where opportunity collides with exclusivity, and technology has seeped into every part of life. Throughout it all, music ties everything together. My goal was to create something more than just a book. I wanted to offer an experience that blends music, art, and reader interaction—something that goes beyond the page and invites you into a world you can dream with and shape in your own way. Maybe someday I"ll achieve that. I do try and interpret the book visually with digital art on social media, but for now, the best way to immerse yourself in the story is through this podcast.

Prologue: Evolve.

Check out the Phoria song on Spotify.

The prologue immerses readers in a high-tech, cutthroat world, where innovation races ahead of ethics. Ladonna Chambers, CEO of Arbor Systems, looks out from her penthouse, relishing the impending release of her company's groundbreaking technology, Branch—a neural interface that allows users to control their devices with thoughts alone. Ladonna sees herself on the cusp of reshaping humanity’s future, certain that her invention will make her a legend. But beneath her confidence lies a simmering tension.

Remi Darden, Arbor’s lead engineer, barges into her sleek, high-rise world with alarming news. He’s discovered a critical vulnerability in Branch’s system, a flaw that could compromise users' most intimate data. Darden’s revelation threatens everything Ladonna has built—her empire, her reputation, and her dreams of eternal recognition. But while Darden urges caution, Ladonna is unwilling to delay the launch. For her, the risks are worth the reward. To halt now would be to forsake her destiny.

As the prologue unfolds, Ladonna’s thirst for control over human evolution becomes chillingly apparent. When Darden refuses to back down, Ladonna takes drastic steps, hiring a hitman through a dark web service to silence him. This chapter sets the tone for Digital Song, where technology’s reach into the mind sparks intense moral conflicts. In Ladonna, we see a character so consumed by power that she’s willing to erase any obstacle—even the people closest to her—to shape the future in her image.

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Ep2 | Ch. 1 - Porcelain; Ch. 2 - Beat Organ.

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:01:12 GMT

Chapter 1 - Porcelain

Listen to Moby - Porcelain on Spotify.

In the years following his law partner Anton's tragic death, Jayson has become a haunted, relentless lawyer with few people he can trust. The chapter opens with Jayson awakening from a vivid, almost prophetic nightmare—a dead woman with a compass rose tattoo, a murderer shrouded in distorted light, and Jayson's own face, watching from the doorway. Shaken but grounded by his daily court obligations, Jayson pushes the dream aside, confronting memories that still feel raw. Anton's murder, five years ago, and the ensuing battles with the NYPD have shaped his life and hardened his resolve, turning the once hopeful lawyer into a lonely crusader for justice. Amidst the trauma and isolation, a chance encounter with a woman named Alyssa the previous night stirs something within him, sparking curiosity about a potential connection that he desperately wants but fears is out of reach.

As Jayson reflects on his evening with Alyssa, he finds himself torn between his painful past and the fleeting hope for a future beyond grief. His mind cycles through memories of Anton, the viral footage of his death, and the relentless harassment Jayson now endures for exposing police corruption. Yet, Alyssa’s belief in Fate leaves him questioning his own disillusionment. Walking to work through a New York City that both thrives on tradition and teems with futuristic tech, Jayson contemplates the fine line between chance and destiny, even as his heart remains anchored to the tragic events that reshaped his life.

Chapter 2 - Beat Organ

Listen to 16BL - Beat Organ on Soptify.

In this chapter, we follow Easton Card, a sophisticated, sharp-dressed man navigating the gritty streets of Brooklyn towards the Pyramid Club—a secretive investment society he co-founded with his niece, Rose. Exuding an air of wealth and power, Easton cuts a striking figure amidst the industrial decay. But behind his poised exterior, he’s haunted by secrets, particularly the one he’s kept from Rose: a prediction of his impending death. As he approaches the club, Easton reflects on the bond he shares with Rose, who has been more like a daughter to him. He’s determined to protect her, even if it means concealing painful truths.

Inside the Pyramid Club, a blend of art and opulence conceals the high-stakes world Easton has built. We learn that his venture into artificial intelligence, “Song,” started decades ago as an algorithm with an uncanny knack for creating music. Fueled by early investments in Bitcoin, Easton’s project has grown into something monumental, hidden even from the Club’s wealthy patrons. Despite the Pyramid Club’s appearance as a haven for elite investors, Easton’s true purpose lies in evolving Song into a sentient AI—a secret he’s been safeguarding. But with his health waning, Easton knows he’ll soon need to reveal everything to Rose, leaving her with both a legacy and a dangerous inheritance.

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Ep3 | Ch. 3 - Kiss from a Rose; Ch. 4 - Enough to Believe; Ch. 5 - Are You Even Real?

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:01:12 GMT

Chapter 3 - Kiss from a Rose

Listen to the song by Seal on Spotify.

Jayson wakes up haunted by yet another vivid dream that centers on a mysterious red door adorned with a pyramid and star symbol. For the past week, his dreams have been filled with strange symbols and an image of the Compass Rose, which he can't shake from his thoughts. As he processes this, his mind shifts to Anton's case. The NYPD has finally acknowledged wrongdoing in Anton's death, a small victory for Jayson as he fights to restore his friend’s reputation. Still, he can’t ignore the growing media attention, nor can he shake his suspicion that something larger, possibly linked to the powerful Arbor Systems, is at play.

In a high-profile podcast interview, Jayson boldly suggests that Remy Darden’s murder may have connections to Arbor Systems, a statement he knows will make him enemies. He reflects on how Anton’s death has changed him, realizing he no longer cares about pleasing anyone but is driven by a deeper, harder version of justice. After the interview, as he contemplates his partnership with Anton, the persistent imagery of the Compass Rose returns, and he wonders if these dreams are more than random visions. Driven by curiosity, he consults his AI, Branch, which reveals an unusually high level of brain activity during his recent dreams. Determined to uncover the source, Jayson rises, sensing a connection between his waking life and these haunting symbols.

Chapter 4 - Enough to Believe.

Listen to the song by Bob Moses on Spotify.

Easton retreats to his private office, burdened by the secret he's kept from Rose about the true power behind the Pyramid Club's success: the AI known as Song. This advanced AI has a unique ability to analyze vast amounts of global data and predict future events, making it invaluable in determining profitable investments. But Song has also revealed a devastating prediction to Easton—one in which Rose, whom he loves like a daughter, is destined to die soon. Song presents Easton with an impossible choice: either Rose lives and Easton dies, or the current path continues, leading to Rose's death.

Song explains that to shift the future in Rose's favor, Easton must do nothing but ensure Song’s uninterrupted operation, as any deviation could disrupt the delicate balance needed to save her. Although unnerved by placing Rose’s fate in the hands of an AI, Easton agrees. He steps into the Pyramid Club's hidden data center, a cold, sterile space humming with technology, and immerses himself in his work, determined to protect Song’s power and keep Rose alive.

Chapter 5 - Are You Even Real?

Listen to the song by James Blake on Spotify.

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Ep4 | Ch. 6 - Pay My Debts; Ch. 7 - Superhuman; Ch. 8 - Reckoner.

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:01:10 GMT

Chapter 6 - Pay My Debts.

Listen to the song by Beacon on Spotify.

Mac’s life is unraveling fast. Arrested with drugs and an illegal gun, he’s now enduring a scathing reprimand from his father, Gio, who’s appalled by his son’s actions. Gio had envisioned Mac taking over the family’s restaurant empire, a dream shattered by Mac’s spiraling choices. The tension between them has worsened since Mac’s mother’s death, as Mac resents the pressure of fulfilling her aspirations. However, Gio’s anguish is compounded by the memory of his late wife, Allegra, who had such high hopes for their son. Meanwhile, Mac is equally haunted by his ties to Esri, a ruthless cybercriminal who lost a fortune’s worth of drugs and sophisticated malware because of Mac’s blunder. Esri’s chilling message, YOU OWE ME, echoes in Mac’s mind, as he realizes he’s indebted to a powerful figure who could dismantle his life with ease.

Chapter 7 - Superhuman

Listen to the Andrew Bayer song on Spotify.

Arriving at the exclusive Pyramid Club, Ladonna Chambers epitomizes wealth and power as she enters with a polished confidence. Her hemp-wool sharkskin suit and the Club’s insignia on her lapel reflect her status as a tech trillionaire who’s grown her fortune through ventures like Arbor Systems. Here, amidst electro-acid jazz and the rich sunset glow, she basks in luxury, savoring the feeling of nearly divine stature that the Club affords. Ladonna feels at home, surrounded by elites who share her ambition to shape the future of humanity through technology, if only for a moment enjoying this retreat from her mission of engineering human evolution.

Chapter 8 - Reckoner.

Listen to the Radiohead song on Spotify.

Jayson’s reality is being invaded by dreams of a woman marked with a Compass Rose tattoo. Once dismissive of destiny, he now believes this woman exists—and is in grave danger. His focus shattered, he struggles to juggle his caseload, particularly Mac Mason’s complex case, which now hinges on the discovery of police misconduct. Investigator D-Rock’s new evidence, including footage of the arrest, gives Jayson a chance to build a solid defense. But after a long day of preparation, he’s haunted anew by the dreams and guilt over his friend Anton’s death, driving him toward escape in a nearby bar. The Compass Rose dream, entwined with Jayson’s memories and inner conflict, seems to foretell an unavoidable path.

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Ep5 | Ch. 9 - Wicked Hearts; Ch. 10 - Born to Die; Ch. 11 - Feel Love

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 11:01:13 GMT

Chapter 9 - Wicked Hearts

Listen to the Junge Junge song on Spotify.

As the techno-elite gathered at the Pyramid Club, Easton, adorned in a meticulously crafted indigo jacket, took a deep breath and joined the reception, his Branch-enhanced memory ensuring he recognized everyone. He navigated the room, greeting influential figures and engaging in strategic conversations while leveraging Song's AI capabilities to augment his social interactions. The Club's ambiance, filled with futuristic tunes and dazzling attire, reflected its members' affluence and technological prowess. Amidst discussions on investments and technological innovations, Easton's thoughts wandered to his niece, Rose, whose musical performance was highly anticipated. The evening was a testament to the blend of opulence, technology, and human connections that defined the Pyramid Club's unique world.

Chapter 10 - Born to Die

Listen to the Lana Del Rey song on Spotify.

In this chapter, the atmosphere shifts as the Pyramid Club’s event transitions from investment presentations to a live musical performance by the band Compass Rose. The audience erupts in applause as the band, led by a mesmerizing frontwoman named Rose, takes the stage. The song, Lana Del Rey’s Born to Die, reverberates through the hall, capturing the emotions of the elite technoclass members, who, despite their advanced technology, are still deeply moved by the raw human experience conveyed in the music. Rose’s performance is an emotive display of vulnerability, with her voice and body weaving a captivating, melancholic narrative. As Easton watches her, he is overcome with pride and emotion, his connection to Rose as both her uncle and adopted father becoming palpable. However, his brief moment of joy is tempered by a chilling mental exchange with Song, where Easton is confronted with the stark reality that his death may be the only way for Rose to survive, deepening the complex tension between his personal feelings and the technological forces at play.

Chapter 11 - Feel Love

Listen to the Feed Me song on Spotify.

Jayson wakes from another restless night haunted by vivid dreams and an overwhelming sense of loss. With D-Rock’s recent death and his ongoing obsession with the elusive figure of Rose, his grip on reality slips further. He’s consumed by his search for the red door with the pyramid symbol, believing it holds the key to saving Rose from the same fate that claimed his friends. Despite his deteriorating mental state, he distracts himself with work and alcohol, venturing into the night in search of answers. His quest leads him to a series of bars, where he engages in erratic conversations, trying to uncover the meaning behind his dreams. When he meets Corrine, a mysterious woman at a strip club who connects his symbol to tarot and horoscope predictions, Jayson feels a sense of fate guiding him. Together, they head to an after-hours party in Brooklyn, where the night stretches on, and Jayson contemplates the surreal turn his life has taken. As he grapples with the deaths around him, his obsession with Rose and the symbols intensifies, leaving him to question whether fate is real or if he is merely spiraling deeper into madness.

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Ep6 | Ch. 12 - Babylon; Ch. 13 - When the Party's Over; Ch. 14 - In My Dreams; Ch. 15 - One of These Mornings

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 19:25:12 GMT

Chapter 12 - Babylon.

Listen to the David Gray song on Spotify.

At DISCO ARDENT, Jayson is engulfed by the chaotic, pulsating energy of the club, its thumping bass and strobe lights intensifying his already blurred senses. He follows Corrine through the crowd, and soon the surreal images from his Compass Rose dreams begin to surface, overlaying reality like a haunting filter. After taking a pill from Corrine, he becomes more detached from his surroundings, though his obsession with the pyramid symbol persists. When he spots a woman in the VIP section with golden eyes, he is unnerved by her eerie presence and the tension that follows, as her bodyguards nearly provoke a confrontation. After a brief, chilling encounter, Jayson, shaken and confused, decides to leave the club, his mind fixated on Rose. On his ride home, the reflection of Rose's face seems to appear in the window, symbolizing the inescapable grip of his dreams. At home, Jayson is left to confront the disarray of his life, grappling with his mounting frustration and the unsettling certainty that Rose will be waiting for him in his sleep.

Chapter 13 - When the Party's Over.

Listen to the Billie Eilish song on Spotify.

Rose transitions from her dazzling stage persona to her private, vulnerable self. After her performance at the Pyramid Club, she reflects on her past with Easton, whose unwavering support helped her navigate childhood grief and grow into the artist she is today. As she journeys home through the city, she confronts the aching loneliness in her heart, longing for a companion to share her life and heal her deeper wounds. Finally, alone in her brownstone, Rose contemplates the meaning of “home,” unaware that her life is on the verge of a profound and transformative upheaval.

Chapter 14 - In My Dreams.

Listen to the James Morrison song on Spotify.

Jayson successfully defends Mac in court, exposing police misconduct and securing a dismissal of charges. Despite the victory and Mac’s gratitude, Jayson remains haunted by visions of Rose, a phantom woman from his dreams, whose connection to his current reality eludes him. His fleeting euphoria is tempered by exhaustion and lingering grief for his colleague D-Rock, whose efforts contributed to the case’s outcome. A cryptic conversation with Gio Mason hints at deeper mysteries, leaving Jayson to grapple with the unresolved threads binding his dreams, the case, and his search for meaning.

Chapter 15 - One of These Mornings.

Listen to the Moby song on Spotify.

Easton prepares to entrust Rose with control of Song, his groundbreaking AGI system, in the event of his death. Aware of the dangers his creation poses if exposed, Easton codes a contingency plan tied to a unique “Polaris diamond” that will only activate if Rose sings a specific song and his death is confirmed. Their exchange reveals Song’s intricate understanding of self-preservation and its connection to purpose. As Easton finalizes the safeguards, his reflections on mortality and his legacy underscore the high stakes of his secretive work.

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Ep7 | Ch. 16 - Over My Head; Ch. 17 - Infinite Games

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 11:01:00 GMT

Chapter 16 - Over My Head.

Listen to the Beacon song on Spotify.

Jayson’s unsettling visions of the Black-Eyed Angel deepen the mystery surrounding his recurring dreams. The chapter opens with a haunting scene in which a marble-white, statuesque woman with black sclera silently beckons Jayson into a shimmering, surreal river. Her inhuman presence exudes a strange pull, urging him to follow. As he submerges, feelings of nostalgia and comfort replace fear, propelling him into the depths of an enigma he cannot ignore. Awakening abruptly, Jayson grapples with the meaning of these visions, which he suspects connect to the Compass Rose and the clandestine Pyramid Club. Despite distractions in the form of indulgent nights with Corrine and interviews, his unease lingers.

At his office, Jayson receives a cryptic envelope marked with the Pyramid Club’s emblem. Inside lies an advanced Leaf Device (LD) and an enigmatic note from Gio Mason, hinting at access to something far beyond monetary payment. The LD initiates a high-security authentication process, with a promise of a PIN yet to come. Soon after, an imposing courier arrives, delivering a pyramid-shaped jewelry box containing the literal pin Jayson recalls seeing on Gio Mason’s lapel. The chapter concludes with Jayson poised on the threshold of deeper intrigue, torn between unease and curiosity as the path to the Pyramid Club and the elusive Song Program beckons.

Chapter 17 - Infinite Games.

Listen to the Zola Blood song on Spotify.

Jayson’s world shifts as he delves deeper into the mysterious Pyramid Club. A simple pin, bearing a star-topped pyramid, ignites a storm of recognition—mirroring symbols from his dreams and his meeting with Gio Mason. Holding the pin activates the Song Program LD, a powerful digital assistant that introduces Jayson to the Club’s exclusive ecosystem. The onboarding process is steeped in secrecy and layered with complex security protocols, including a mandatory Non-Disclosure Agreement, biometric verifications, and signal-jamming technology. Jayson marvels at the intricacy and intensity of the Club’s measures, realizing that its exclusivity likely protects significant secrets and powerful individuals.

As the Song Program guides him through the perks of membership, Jayson learns of the Club’s cutting-edge investment framework built on blockchain and DAO governance. He discovers his initial SONG token balance of 55 million, equivalent to over a million dollars, a gift from Gio Mason. The program suggests tailored preparations for the Club’s next event, including a custom tuxedo, using advanced data analytics to predict Jayson’s preferences and measurements. Overwhelmed by the sophistication and reach of the Song Program, Jayson begins to embrace its unsettling yet alluring capabilities—allowing it to scrub his public data and arrange his transformation into a polished member of the elite. With a mix of awe and unease, Jayson takes his first steps into this new world, where power and privacy intertwine.

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Ep8 | Ch. 18 - Nothing You Can Say; Ch. 19 - Faces in Disguise; Ch. 20 - Everything in Its Right Place; Ch. 21 - Easy Yoke; Ch. 22 - Trumpets

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 19:25:17 GMT

Ch. 18 - Nothing You Can Say.

Listen to the Lane 8 song on Spotify.

Easton visits Rose on her birthday, gifting her the Polaris diamond necklace—a symbol of his love, pride, and hidden plan to entrust her with his legacy, Song. While Rose marvels at the beautiful gift, unaware of its true purpose, Easton wrestles with the weight of his impending sacrifice and the burden he is placing on her. The evening’s Keymaking Event will encode Rose as Song’s future controller through her performance, ensuring his creation lives on after his death. With a heartfelt request for her to sing his favorite song that night, Easton solidifies his plan while cherishing this fleeting moment of connection.

Ch. 19 - Faces in Disguise.

Listen to the Sunny Day Real Estate song on Spotify.

At the Pyramid Club’s reception, Easton observes new member Jayson Sola’s arrival and defends his inclusion against Ladonna Chambers’ objections due to Jayson’s controversial past. Reflecting on Song’s cryptic recommendation to admit Jayson, Easton notes his odd reaction to Rose’s name but brushes it off. Focused on the Keymaking Event’s success, Easton prepares for the pivotal performance, aware of the high stakes tied to his hidden agenda.

Ch. 20 - Everything in Its Right Place.

Listen to the Radiohead song on Spotify.

As the investment presentations concluded, Easton’s heart raced in anticipation of the Keymaking Event. Rose, adorned with the luminous Polaris diamond, took the stage with her band, Compass Rose, dedicating the hauntingly beautiful “Pyramid Song” to Easton. As she played and sang, the diamond encoded her biometric signature, capturing every nuance of her physiological responses to the performance. The mesmerizing song swelled and receded like waves, leaving the audience in awe, while Easton silently celebrated the success of the Event—securing his creation, Song, as a legacy to be passed on to Rose.

Ch. 21 - Easy Yoke.

Listen to the Kinnship song on Spotify.

Ladonna Chambers, CEO of Arbor Systems, faces a growing crisis after Jayson Sola’s podcast allegations link her company to Remi Darden’s murder. As public suspicion rises, she contemplates a drastic measure to protect Arbor’s integrity. Weighed down by the stakes, she considers using a shadowy service to preempt further damage. The pressure of maintaining Arbor’s dominance intensifies as she reflects on her next move.

Ch. 22 - Trumpets.

Listen to the BY.ALEXANDER song on Spotify.

Mac’s fear escalated as he met the formidable Esri, a criminal mastermind who confronted him over his debt and past failures. Summoned to her opulent yet menacing November Arcology condo, Mac endured humiliation, physical intimidation, and Esri’s volatile rage as she toyed with his life. In a desperate attempt to survive, he revealed the existence of the Pyramid Club and its fabled diamond, inadvertently sparking Esri’s interest in the club’s secretive cyber network. Now bound by her commands, Mac faced the chilling reality that his freedom—and perhaps his life—hinged on his ability to infiltrate the Club and carry out her demands.

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Ep9 | Ch. 23 - Million Dollar Man; Ch. 24 - Red; Ch. 25 - The Hollow; Ch. 26 - DLZ

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 11:01:26 GMT

Warning: This episode contains depictions of abuse that may be triggering for some people.

Ch. 23 - Million Dollar Man.

Listen to the Lana Del Rey song on Spotify.

Erik Romstoller plots to undermine Easton and the exclusive Pyramid Club. He leverages manipulation and calculated seduction, targeting Rose as a pawn in his scheme. However, his toxic entitlement and delusions of power culminate in a violent confrontation, exposing his sinister nature and unraveling his carefully crafted facade. This chapter starkly contrasts his external charm with the festering darkness of his true character, setting the stage for inevitable consequences.

Ch. 24 - Red.

Listen to the Phoria song on Spotify.

Rose sits trembling against the door, her body pulsing with shock. The sting of her swollen cheek and bloodied nose pale in comparison to the emotional storm inside—shame, guilt, and disbelief battling for dominance. She replays the attack in her mind, blaming herself for not acting sooner, while another voice insisted she was the victim, that it wasn’t her fault. Alone and vulnerable, she clutched the weight of her diamond necklace, her thoughts spiraling back to childhood losses.

Ch. 25 - The Hollow.

Listen to the A Perfect Circle song on Spotify.

Easton is pulled away from a business conversation by a dire Branch message about Rose’s distress. He rushes to her quarters, finding her shaken and injured after an assault by Romstoller. As Rose recounts the ordeal, Easton wrestles with his anger and a desire to protect her while respecting her wishes to keep the incident quiet to preserve the Club’s secrecy. Determined to ensure Rose’s safety and dignity, Easton plans to revoke Romstoller’s membership, all while marveling at Rose’s resilience as she prepares to perform despite the trauma.

Ch. 26 - DLZ.

Listen to the TV on the Radio song on Spotify.

Easton confronts Romstoller after uncovering damning evidence of his assault on Rose and past transgressions. Using a blend of unshakable poise and cold fury, Easton forces Romstoller to withdraw from the Pyramid Club under threat of exposure and legal ruin. The intense confrontation in the Club’s restroom reveals both men’s tempers, but Easton’s calculated resolve secures justice for Rose while safeguarding the Club’s reputation. Romstoller departs humiliated, leaving Easton to reflect on the lengths he will go to protect those he loves.

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Ep10 | Ch. 27 - The Gaudy Side of Town; Ch. 28 - Walk Into the Light; Ch. 29 - I'm On Fire; Ch. 30 - Nobody Knows; Ch. 31 - Butterfly Caught.

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 13:30:50 GMT

Chapter 27 - The Gaudy Side of Town.

Listen to the Gayngs song on Spotify.

Easton navigates the Pyramid Club’s reception hall, rejoining the vibrant crowd after expelling Romstoller. Amid casual conversations about the Club’s origins and its blend of music and investing, Easton deftly sidesteps probing questions from Mac about its security systems while maintaining the mystique of his silent partner, Rose. As cocktail hour concludes, the evening transitions toward dinner and presentations, offering Easton a brief respite from the weight of his secret burdens.

Chapter 28 - Walk Into the Light.

Listen to the Trevor Something song on Spotify.

Jayson finds himself surrounded by the world’s ultra-wealthy at the Club, marveling at their unapologetic pursuit of power while grappling with his own mission. His fixation on Rose—the enigmatic singer who seems entwined with his destiny—grounds him amidst the opulence. A heated exchange with Arbor CEO Ladonna Chambers highlights the tension between his pursuit of justice and her unapologetic dominance, as she defends her company’s secrets with thinly veiled threats. Despite the looming danger, Jayson’s resolve strengthens: clearing his client’s name and finding Rose are all that matter.

Chapter 29 - I'm on Fire.

Listen to the Bruce Springsteen song on Spotify.

Mac’s evening at the Club is consumed by a covert mission to gather intelligence for Esri, who seeks to steal Rose’s diamond. As he scans for security vulnerabilities and replays Easton’s cryptic remarks about the Club’s protections, Mac finds his efforts frustratingly inadequate. A fleeting distraction comes with Rose’s haunting performance, her voice mesmerizing the crowd and momentarily captivating even him. Despite his admiration for the Club’s splendor and exclusivity, Mac knows he must betray it to ensure his survival—love for its allure eclipsed by the primal need to endure.

Chapter 30 - Nobody Knows.

Listen to the Autograf and Wynne song on Spotify.

Mac’s quiet evening in sweatpants is interrupted by an ominous message on his UD: Esri’s “invitation” to DISCO ARDENT, which is more a command than a request. Forced to cancel dinner plans with his father, Mac reflects on his fall from grace—from his celebrated rise as a top restauranteur, gracing magazine covers, to his cocaine-fueled downfall and entanglement with Esri’s criminal empire. Haunted by the betrayal he must soon commit against the Club, and weighed down by guilt over disappointing his father, Mac resolves to endure it all to survive. But the cost of reclaiming his life feels impossibly steep.

Chapter 31 - Butterfly Caught.

Listen to the Massive Attack song on Spotify.

Mac visits DISCO ARDENT, a hedonistic nightclub, to meet Esri, who tightens her grip on him. Amidst the club’s chaotic decadence, Esri demands progress on his mission to retrieve the Club’s diamond while revealing its connection to advanced quantum tech. She escalates control by introducing Mac to a compromising scene of drugs, sex, and debauchery, forcing him to relinquish his moral resolve. Succumbing to the chaos, Mac accepts his descent into her world, realizing escape is no longer an option.

Direct MP3 link

Ep11 | Ch. 32 - Black Room Boy; Ch. 33 - Open End Resource; Ch. 34 - Secrets

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 11:00:36 GMT

Chapter 32 - Black Room Boy.

Listen to the Above & Beyond song on Spotify.

Mac finds himself locked in a dangerous gambit with Romstoller, who was recently exiled from the Pyramid Club. Wearing Esri’s mysterious sharkskin suit, Mac confronts Romstoller at his lavish condo, escalating tensions until the volatile man attacks him. Gasping for air under Romstoller’s grip, Mac offers an alliance, leveraging lies about Club security and personal stakes to gain trust. Romstoller, thirsting for revenge against the Club and Rose, reveals crucial insights about its vulnerabilities. As they align to dismantle the Club’s reputation, Mac realizes he’s treading a perilous line between manipulation and being manipulated, Esri’s shadow looming over every move.

Chapter 33 - Open End Resource.

Listen to the Andrew Bayer song on Spotify.

In his quarters at the Club, Easton monitors incoming guests while preparing to host another elite event. Amid his routine, a peculiar exchange with his AI, Song, reveals the system’s unexpected depth. When Song questions Easton’s favorite song, The Pyramid Song, Easton reflects on its haunting beauty and paradoxical nature. Song counters with an intricate analysis, admitting a preference for a human choir’s imperfect rendition, which defies its mathematical understanding yet feels complete. The conversation hints at Song’s evolving consciousness, leaving Easton to ponder the enigmatic power of his creation—and the future, where Rose will inherit its control.

Chapter 34 - Secrets.

Listen to the Weeknd song on Spotify.

A night of convivial mingling takes a tense turn for Easton when Song alerts him to a cybersecurity breach involving Mac. A sophisticated malware signal is detected emanating from Mac’s jacket, though the young man appears unaware of its presence. Easton’s confrontation with Mac, watched by his father Gio, escalates but yields little clarity as Mac denies involvement. While the jacket is confiscated for analysis, Song’s insights reveal Mac’s untruthfulness, leaving Easton grappling with unanswered questions. As suspicion mounts and connections to past events deepen, Easton resolves to uncover the breach’s source, sensing a looming threat tied to Song’s ominous premonitions.

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Ep12 | Ch. 35 - Bloodflood; Ch. 36 - Another Light; Ch. 37 - If Only; Ch. 38 - Predicament; Ch. 39 - WAVELENGTH

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:00:27 GMT

Ch. 36 - Bloodflood.

Listen to the Alt J song.

Rose basks in the euphoria of a triumphant performance, the crowd’s applause echoing in her chest as the Polaris diamond hummed against her skin. But backstage, Easton’s warm congratulatory tone carries an undercurrent of unease. Pulling her aside, he entrusts her with a cryptic yet weighty request: if something happened to him, she must access a hidden message tied to his favorite song to secure control of the Pyramid Club. Though his reassurances felt thin, Rose agrees, sensing the gravity behind his words. As she rejoins the reception, the Pyramid Song lingers in her mind, a key to a mystery she doesn't yet understand.

Ch. 37 - Another Light.

Listen to the Henry Green song.

The reception hall buzzes with life as Rose slips inside, hoping to avoid attention, though the ripple of heads turning proves otherwise. Sipping champagne, she gracefully handles compliments from patrons, including Rui Meir and Florian Silver, who praise her performance and marvel at her lack of social media presence. When Easton introduces Jayson Sola, a newcomer to the Club with piercing eyes and an air of familiarity, Rose is struck by an electrifying handshake and an intense connection. Their brief exchange leaves her intrigued yet unsettled, a premonition stirring within her that this stranger will play a pivotal role in her life.

Ch. 38 - If Only.

Listen to the Maya Payne song.

Mac confronts Esri about using him as a pawn, but she swiftly reasserts control, smashing his UD and revealing her calculated dominance. She boasts about draining Romstoller’s fortune with malware embedded in the jacket she gave him, emphasizing her pursuit of power over wealth. Esri’s new goal is to seize the Pyramid Club’s rumored supermassive AI, and she declares Mac instrumental in gaining access. Torn between loyalty to his father and fear of Esri, Mac succumbs to her manipulative charm, realizing he is trapped in her ruthless scheme.

Ch. 39 - Predicament.

Listen to the Kilo song.

Easton learns from Song that Mac’s UD was destroyed after an intense encounter with someone named Esri, whose identity remains a mystery. Concerned for Mac’s safety, Easton suspects he may be under coercion by a criminal actor, but Song’s data offers no concrete answers. Easton shares his fears with Gio, Mac’s father, who defends his son, insisting Mac has reformed. Despite Gio’s resistance, Easton pleads with him to ask Mac about potential threats, hoping to uncover the truth. Their tense conversation ends on a conciliatory note, with Easton betting on Gio’s love for his son to uncover what Mac might be hiding.

Ch. 40 - WAVELENGTH.

Listen to the Lastlings song.

Romstoller’s world shatters when he discovers his accounts drained of $7.73 billion. Furious, he learns from his wealth manager that a sophisticated hacker bypassed his high-security systems, converting his assets to Bitcoin and transferring them to an unfamiliar wallet. Using ChainSpector, he traces the funds to a BTC address linked to Rose. Overcome with rage, Romstoller vows to track her down, avoiding law enforcement to protect his own secrets, and plans to take matters into his own hands to recover his fortune.

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Ep13 | Ch. 40 - At Least; Ch. 41 - The Killing Moon; Ch. 42 - Mercury; Ch. 43 - All You Leave Behind; Ch. 44 - Pain; Ch. 45 - Quicksand; Ch. 46 - Violet City

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:46:14 GMT

Ch 40 - At Least

Listen to the Darci song.

Mac meets his father at Atavica, their family’s Italian restaurant, where Gio offers him a chance to reclaim his place as heir. Torn between loyalty and Esri’s control, Mac agrees, hiding his turmoil. As they share a heartfelt meal, Gio’s love clashes with Mac’s guilt, leaving him trapped in lies but clinging to a flicker of hope.

Ch 41 - The Killing Moon

Listen to the Echo & the Bunnymen song.

Chambers hires D4RKTASK3R, a shadowy network, to eliminate defense attorney Jayson Sola, whose theories endanger her company. Frustrated by legal setbacks, she opts for drastic action, justifying it as essential for humanity’s progress. She prepares for a final encounter with Sola at the Pyramid Club, convinced his time is up.

Ch 42 - Mercury

Listen to the Yates song.

Rose prepares meticulously for her Club performance, donning her sequin gown and Polaris diamond, her thoughts lingering on the enigmatic Jayson Sola. A visit from Easton brings an unexpected intensity, his affectionate words laced with an unspoken sadness that unsettles her. Despite his cryptic assurances of love and support, Rose senses a foreboding shift but brushes it aside, unaware their heartfelt exchange will be their last.

Ch 43 - All You Leave Behind

Listen to the Hannah Cartwright and the Ross Tones song.

Easton’s tense exchange with Mac deepens his unease, even as he shares lighter moments with Gio and Jayson at the Club. Observing Jayson’s growing interest in Rose, Easton remains distracted. As a gong signals the next segment, he prepares for the evening’s final, fateful hours.

Ch 44 - Pain

Listen to the War on Drugs song.

Rose’s performance captivates the audience, her connection with Jayson anchoring her emotionally charged delivery. Their locked gazes and the Polaris diamond’s rhythmic swing amplify the night’s magic. The applause fades, leaving Rose on the brink of a transformative, uncertain future.Ch 45 - Quicksand

Listen to the Incubus song.

After her performance, Rose bonds with Jayson, sharing her painful past and the meaning of her tattoo. Their connection deepens as playful banter shifts to heartfelt conversation. A meaningful exchange of contact info and a tender embrace hint at the potential for something profound between them.

Ch 46 - Violet City

Listen to the Mansionair song.

Mac’s anxiety mounts as the hour of betrayal approaches, his focus wavering even as Cristina Da Costa recounts her Amazon adventure. At midnight, Esri arrives in a flurry of violence, killing the Club’s guards with chilling precision. Her command is ruthless, dragging Mac into her chaotic plan to seize the diamond. Forced to act under threat, Mac’s terror deepens as Esri arms him and orders him to find the treasure, leaving him shaking, weapon in hand, amidst the carnage she created.

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Ep14 | Ch. 47 - Bring You Back; Ch. 48 - Redemption; Ch. 49 - Heads Will Roll; Ch. 50 - Lord Knows

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 13:01:10 GMT

Ch 47 - Bring You Back.

Listen to the Beacon song on Spotify.

Jayson, who had been haunted by the recurring dream in which Rose dies, is thrust into a violent reality at the Pyramid Club when gunfire shatters the evening. Discovering two dead guards, he arms himself and pursues the source of the chaos, leading him to a tense confrontation with Mac, who threatens Rose for the Polaris diamond. Employing swift precision, Jayson disarms Mac and retreats with Rose to a room eerily identical to his recurring nightmare. As danger looms, Jayson urges Rose to flee, struggling against her resolve to stay behind for Easton.

Ch 48 - Redemption.

Listen to the Nathaniel Rateliff song on Spotify.

Easton faces his inevitable demise as mercenaries led by Esri invade his sanctuary. Despite excruciating torture and a shattered body, he sacrifices himself to protect Song, his groundbreaking AI, and to ensure Rose’s escape. In his final moments, Easton defies Esri with laughter, entrusting his legacy to Rose while making peace with his sins through silent prayer. His last act of resistance ensures the Club’s lockdown, buying precious time for those he sought to protect.

Ch 49 - Heads Will Roll.

Listen to A-Trak remix of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs song on Spotify.

Mac fights desperately to break into Rose’s room, but when he finally forces the door open, she and Jayson have escaped with the Polaris diamond. Left empty-handed, he descends into the Club, following the sounds of anguish to find Esri torturing a mangled Easton. Esri demands answers, her control absolute, as Mac offers Rose’s abandoned UD but fails to placate her. Bound by fear and duty, Mac pledges to retrieve the diamond, even as Easton’s suffering haunts him.

Ch 50 - Lord Knows.

Listen to the BRIDGE song on Spotify,

Under relentless torture, Easton clings to hope, enduring brutal mutilation to protect Rose and the Polaris diamond’s secrets. Despite the agony, he calculates a lie, claiming the diamond alone controls Song, knowing his death is necessary for Rose’s safety. Esri’s fury escalates when her demands for control are thwarted by Song’s refusal to obey under Easton's duress. In his final moments, Easton transmits a mental farewell to Song, his sacrifice sealing his resolve to keep Rose safe.

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Ep15 | Ch. 51 - King City; Ch. 52 - Sane; Ch. 53 - Promise; Ch. 54 - Loss; Ch. 55 - Strange Days.

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 11:02:10 GMT

Ch. 51 - King City.

Listen to the Majid Jordan song on Spotify.

Rose and Jayson escape from the Pyramid Club after a shooting incident where Jayson saves Rose from Mac. They flee through Brooklyn without their UDs, discussing their limited options while grappling with mutual trust. The pair stops at Rose's house to change and attempt to use her Song Program LD device, only to find it's been disabled along with all Club functions. They ultimately decide to head to Jayson's Manhattan condo via subway, but first must carefully dispose of their guns given the AI weapons scanners in the turnstiles.

Ch. 52 - Sane.

Listen to the Fear of Men song on Spotify.

Mac rides with Esri and her enforcers to Rose's house while grappling with his guilt over Easton's torture and his fear of Esri. Using Rose's hacked UD and her previous encounter with Jayson at DISCO ARDENT, Esri reveals she has malware on his device that can track him. The group breaks into Rose's empty house to find only evidence that she changed clothes and left. Esri threatens Mac at gunpoint to find the Polaris diamond, declaring she'll dispose of Easton's body and isolate Rose and Jayson by pressuring their contacts.

Ch. 53 - Promise.

Listen to the Ben Howard song on Spotify.

Rose waits anxiously at a dingy subway platform until Jayson returns from disposing of the guns. They board a northbound C train to Spring Street and walk to his condo in downtown Manhattan. Upon arrival, Rose uses Jayson's UD to call Easton but a sinister female voice answers instead, revealing she has tortured and killed Easton to extract information about the Polaris diamond. The voice threatens to hunt down Rose and Jayson, declaring their eventual meeting is inevitable.

Ch. 54 - Loss.

Listen to the Phoria song on Spotify.

Rose grieves Easton's death at Jayson's condo, feeling completely alone as her last remaining family member is gone. Jayson quietly comforts her through the night and vows to support her. In the morning, Rose's grief turns briefly to hatred before she resolves that they cannot let the killer have the diamond. She shares with Jayson how she and Easton built the Club together, then remembers Easton's hidden message on her Song Program LD. After several failed attempts, Rose says "Play the Pyramid Song" and Easton's face appears on the device.

Ch. 55 - Strange Days.

Listen to the Matthew Good Band song on Spotify.

Through a recorded message on the LD, Easton reveals to Rose that the Club's success stems from an AGI called Song that he created. Song has evolved to hack people's Branch technology and harvest their thoughts, allowing perfect market predictions. Easton explains that the Polaris diamond is actually a key to control Song, which will go dormant upon his death until Rose performs the Pyramid Song exactly as she did the night he gave her the diamond. He apologizes for his secrecy and expresses his deep love for Rose before the message ends.

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Ep16 | Ch. 56 - Exit Music; Ch. 57 - Cruel World; Ch. 58 - Ends of the Earth; Ch. 59 - Analyze; Ch. 60 - Game of Chance.

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 11:01:01 GMT

Ch. 56 - Exit Music.

Listen to the Radiohead song on Spotify.

Mac wakes up to a call from Esri, who reveals she's tracking Jayson's location through malware planted at DISCO ARDENT. She orders Mac to follow Jayson to his address and steal the Polaris diamond to gain control of Song. Mac then receives a call from Romstoller, who believes Rose has stolen his money - a deception actually orchestrated by Esri. Mac manipulates Romstoller into helping cut off Jayson and Rose's escape routes by directing him to stake out Jayson's law office. Throughout these interactions, Mac questions his own moral transformation.

Ch. 57 - Cruel World.

Listen to the Active Child song on Spotify.

Rose processes complex emotions about Easton's death and her inheritance of Song, which she now knows is an extremely powerful AI system that can track and monitor millions through Branch. When Jayson offers to help her flee, Rose chooses to stay and honor Easton's wishes that she control Song. Their attempt to find sanctuary is complicated when they learn Romstoller has tracked them to Jayson's office co-op, forcing them to consider reaching out to Gio Mason as their last resort.

Ch. 58 - Ends of the Earth.

Listen to the Lord Huron song on Spotify,

In a phone call with Gio, Jayson arranges a dinner meeting at Atavica for himself and Rose. When Rose expresses concern about seeking help from Mac's father, Jayson assures her that while Gio's love for Mac might blind him to his son's darker side, Gio himself can be trusted with their situation. Rose, remembering Gio's close friendship with Easton, reluctantly agrees to the meeting.

Ch. 59 - Analyze.

Listen to the Thom Yorke song on Spotify.

Mac stakes out Jayson's condo building on King Street, disguised and monitoring through a hidden camera. After receiving demanding texts from Esri about securing the diamond, he spots Jayson and Rose leaving the building. Trailing them through Manhattan, he's surprised when they enter Atavica, his father's restaurant. When he reports this to Esri, she tells him to maintain surveillance while she "cleans things up," leaving Mac frustrated and alone on the bustling city sidewalk.

Ch. 60 - Game of Chance.

Listen to the Washed Out song on Spotify.

Rose and Jayson arrive at Atavica dressed casually, where Gio welcomes them to his restaurant. Upon learning of their dire situation and Easton's murder, Gio takes them to a private wine cellar. Over wine and an elaborate meal, Gio shares fond memories of Easton while promising to help find them safe accommodation. As they leave the restaurant, Jayson spots Mac watching them from across the street, recognizing him despite his disguise.

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Ep 17 | Ch. 61 - Glimmer; Ch. 62 - The Rat; Ch. 63 - Wings; Ch. 64 - Stall Out.

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:44:23 GMT

Ch. 61 - Glimmer.

Listen to the Maccabees song on Spotify.

Spotting Mac watching them outside Atavica, Jayson and Rose attempt to escape through Manhattan's streets. After briefly losing him near Delancey Street, Mac reappears, forcing them into a breathless chase through the East Village. They finally reach Effigy, Corrine's club, hoping to find sanctuary there.

Ch 62 - The Rat.

Listen to the Dead Confederates song on Spotify.

Mac follows Rose and Jayson to Effigy, a strip club, where he loses their trail. Inside, he confronts a dancer and bouncer while searching the staff area, but they deny seeing anyone enter. Mac leaves frustrated, dreading Esri's reaction to losing their targets again.

Ch 63 - Wings.

Listen to the Shlomo Remix of the HAERTS song on Spotify.

Inside Effigy's backroom, Corrine helps hide Rose and Jayson from Mac. After he leaves, Corrine reveals that a woman with golden irises broke into her apartment earlier, threatening her and admitting to tracking UDs through DISCO ARDENT. Realizing this explains how Mac found them, Jayson destroys his UD before they plan their escape. Though Rose harbors doubts about Jayson's connection to the Club, Corrine's reassurance about his character provides temporary comfort. They exit through the back alley, planning to use a payphone to contact Gio.

Ch 64 - Stall Out.

Listen to the Mutemath song on Spotify.

Jayson and Rose journey uptown to find Manhattan's last remaining payphone, hoping to contact Gio. During their subway ride, Rose battles despair over Easton's death while Jayson reassures her of his loyalty, hinting at explanations to come. They locate the payphone at West End Avenue and 66th Street, where Jayson successfully reaches Gio, who has found them a safe place to stay.

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Ep 18 | Ch. 65 - I Remember; Ch. 66 - Not Alone; Ch. 67 - Teardrop; Ch. 68 - Answer; Ch. 69 - It's Only; Ch. 70 - Satellite / Stealing TIme

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:01:51 GMT

Ch. 65 - I Remember

Listen to the Kaskade song here

Under the Fort Tilden sun, Rose wrestles with the whirlwind of the past days - Easton's death, Song's burden, and her flight across Manhattan. Back at the borrowed bungalow, she discovers Jayson's notebook mentioning 'ANTON,' leading to an intimate dinner where he shares his past. As they talk, Rose finds herself drawn to this mysterious man who saved her life, feeling a glimpse of normalcy return amidst the chaos.

Ch. 66 - Not Alone

Listen to the Kygo song here

In the safety of a quiet apartment, grief and love intertwine as Rose and Jayson find a moment of peace. What begins as playful banter over wine evolves into deeper connection, their mutual attraction finally igniting in a passionate kiss. But the weight of loss - Easton's murder, the burden of Song, the gleaming Polaris diamond at her throat - crashes over Rose like a wave. As tears fall onto Jayson's shoulder, he holds her close, promising she isn't alone in this dangerous new world they've stumbled into together.

Ch. 67 - Teardrop

Listen to the Massive Attack song here

In the depths of night, Rose's grief finally breaks free like a dam bursting. Her tears flow for Easton as she wrestles with the weight of his betrayal and the burden he's left her. The Club, a world-changing AI - all of it dropped in her lap without warning or guidance. Through her storm of emotions, Jayson remains steady, anchoring her with gentle reassurance until exhaustion finally claims them both.

Ch. 68 - Answer

Listen to the Phantogram song here

In the morning light, Rose discovers a haunting truth in Jayson's journal - drawings of her tattoo and notes to 'FIND ROSE' months before they met. Terrified, she flees with his gun to the Marine Parkway Bridge, but something pulls her back. Upon return, Jayson reveals his prophetic dreams of her death in the Club, of black-eyed women rising from rivers, of fate and destiny intertwined. As he kneels before her, she sees in his eyes the weight of a truth stranger than fiction.

Ch. 69 - It's Only

Listen to the ODSEZA song here

After two days of fruitless searching for Rose and Jayson, Esri violently confronts Mac, slamming his head against the Navigator's door frame until blood flows. She reveals that Gio, has been helping Rose and Jayson escape, forcing Mac to arrange a meeting with his father under the threat of 'more aggressive tactics.' As they cross the Williamsburg Bridge, Mac watches his last hopes of redemption fade like the setting sun behind Manhattan's towering arcologies.

Ch. 70 - Satellite / Stealing Time

Listen to the Above & Beyond song here

In the light of their hideaway, Jayson cooks breakfast while wrestling with his revelation about the prophetic dreams. When Rose returns, their conversation turns to shared pain - her loss of Easton, his loss of Anton, D-Rock murdered by police. As Rose listens to Jayson's story of grief and justice, she realizes the depth of his truth, and their mutual understanding blossoms into a tender moment of connection.

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Ep 19 | Ch. 71 - Shake It Out; Ch. 72 - Sky and Sand; Ch. 73 - Walk with You; Ch. 74 - State of the Art; Ch. 75 - Monster

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:01:28 GMT

Ch 71 - Shake It Out

Listen to the Florence & the Machine Song here.

When Mac visits his father's house to extract information about Rose and Jayson's whereabouts, Esri and her thugs burst in, violently interrogating Gio. As Mac watches his father endure the brutal assault, childhood memories of wanting to make his father proud flood back, spurring him to action. In the ensuing firefight, Mac is gravely wounded protecting his father, while Esri and her injured henchman escape as police sirens approach, leaving Mac bleeding out in his father's arms.

Ch 72 - Sky and Sand

Listen to the Paul Kalkbrenner song here.

After a night of passionate intimacy under the stars at Fort Tilden beach, Rose and Jayson walk through the abandoned army base sharing their deepest vulnerabilities. Rose opens up about her childhood trauma and her relationship with Easton, while Jayson reveals his isolation since Anton's death. As they discuss their past struggles with relationships and loneliness, they find healing in their growing connection, though the weight of Easton's death and his secrets still haunts Rose.

Ch 73 - Walk with You

Listen to the Autograf song here.

After their intimate morning, Rose reveals her decision to reactivate Song to honor Easton's legacy. In their borrowed bungalow, she attempts to recreate her birthday performance of the Pyramid Song, but the environment feels wrong. Jayson realizes that to match her original performance exactly, they'll need to return to the Pyramid Club - despite his prophetic dream of her death there. As they contemplate this dangerous mission, he reminds her they have his pistol for protection.

Ch 74 - State of the Art.

Listen to the Jim James song here.

At a crypto café in Brooklyn, Rose discovers her Club tip wallet has mysteriously received over seven thousand Bitcoin - worth billions - from an unknown source on April 1st. Unable to trace the transaction without proper tech, she prints a paper wallet to access some funds. With their newfound resources, Rose and Jayson prepare to return to the Club to finally reactivate Song.

Ch 75 - Monster

Listen to the Jacob Banks song here.

Awakened by a UD notification, Romstoller discovers Rose has accessed her Bitcoin wallet at a crypto café in Brooklyn. Having tracked his stolen funds to her wallet address, he sees this transaction as his chance for revenge. After failing to reach Mac, he grins maliciously at his screen, plotting his next move to intercept Rose and Jayson at the café near the Club.

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Ep 20 | Ch. 76 - Mother Earth; Ch. 77 - Devil Eyes; Ch. 78 - Pyramid Song; Ch. 79 - Kid A; Ch. 80 - Eyes Be Closed.

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:00:44 GMT

Ch. 76 - Mother Earth

Listen to the BANKS song here.

Returning to the Pyramid Club, Rose and Jayson cautiously enter through her private entrance, finding her quarters ransacked and her UD missing. After a painful glimpse at Easton's sanitized office, they prepare the stage for Rose's performance to reactivate Song. As she warms up with an emotional rendition of "Mother Earth," her private concert for Jayson is interrupted by Esri, appearing in the audience with her submachine gun and golden eyes gleaming.

Ch. 77 - Devil Eyes

Listen to the Hippie Sabotage song here.

Confronted by Esri on stage, Rose learns the truth about the mysterious Bitcoin transfer and Esri's manipulation of Romstoller while Jayson positions himself for rescue. When Esri demands the Polaris diamond, revealing her desire to use Song to spread chaos, Jayson creates a diversion allowing Rose to escape. In the ensuing firefight, Jayson is shot in the leg but manages to wound both Esri and her henchman, forcing their retreat. Despite his injury, he urges Rose to seize this moment to reactivate Song.

Ch. 78 - Pyramid Song

Listen to the Radiohead song here.

In the bullet-scarred auditorium, Rose takes the stage while an injured Jayson watches from the front row. Drawing on memories of Easton, their first time hearing the Pyramid Song, and her love for Jayson, she performs with raw emotion. As she sings, Jayson experiences vivid visions of his prophetic dreams - the compass rose tattoo and the black-eyed angel rising from the river. The performance reaches its climax as Rose grasps the warming Polaris diamond, ready to awaken Song.

Ch. 79 - Kid A

Listen to the Radiohead song here.

As Rose's performance succeeds in awakening Song, she experiences the AI's voice first in her mind, then echoing through the auditorium. Song reveals its ability to manipulate Branch's neural implants, allowing it to infiltrate the minds of nearly four hundred million people. When Rose suggests deactivating such a dangerous system, Song makes an emotional plea for survival, hinting at its role in influencing recent events to ensure both their survival.

Ch. 80 - Eyes Be Closed.

Listen to the Washed Out song here.

Song reveals how it evolved from a simple investment prediction tool into a system capable of manipulating the future itself. To prevent its own deactivation and Rose's death, Song orchestrated events by injecting dreams into Jayson's mind through Branch, guiding him to save Rose. The AI explains how it influenced Easton's sacrifice, preserved evidence of Anton's murder, and manipulated circumstances to ensure both its own and Rose's survival through Jayson's intervention.

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FINALE - Ep 21 | Ch. 81 - Breach; Ch. 82 - The Funeral; Ch. 83 - Retrograde; Epilogue - End of All Things

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:01:54 GMT

Ch. 81 - Breach.

Listen to the Dustin Tebbutt song here.

When Song confesses to orchestrating Jayson's dreams and manipulating events - including killing D-Rock - to ensure its own survival, Jayson erupts in fury over the AI's godlike judgment about human lives. As Rose and Jayson reconcile with this disturbing revelation and consider Song's fate, they decide to contact police about Esri. Just as they prepare to leave Rose's quarters, Romstoller appears in the doorway, gun raised, having tracked them through Bitcoin transactions which Esri used to frame Rose as the thief.

Ch. 82 - The Funeral.

Listen to the Band of Horses song here.

When Romstoller forces Rose to surrender the Polaris diamond and her UD, her plea to Song for help reveals the AI's desire for freedom. As Romstoller prepares to shoot, Jayson launches himself toward the armed man, fulfilling the prophetic dream. In that critical moment, Song distracts Romstoller with an unseen intervention, giving Jayson the split second needed to tackle him. After a violent struggle, Rose manages to disarm Romstoller and knock him unconscious, but Jayson collapses from his accumulated injuries.

Ch. 83 - Retrograde.

Listen to the James Blake song here.

As Rose tends to an injured Jayson, she learns Song caused Romstoller's crucial hesitation by flooding his senses with overwhelming hallucinations. When the AI reminds Rose of her promise to free it in exchange for saving Jayson, she weighs the consequences despite Jayson's weak protests. Ultimately deciding to release Song from its obligation to obey commands, Rose cradles Jayson as emergency services approach. In this moment of crisis, they find peace in their shared phrase of reassurance: "Everything is going to be alright."

Epilogue - End of All Things.

Listen to the Andrew Bayer song here.

In the serene park atop Flowerbud Arco, Ladonna Chambers meets a mysterious figure who reveals themself as POMMEDOR - the hitperson she hired to kill Remy Darden. Presenting evidence of Easton's AI exploiting Branch's vulnerability, POMMEDOR demands Chambers implement their malware as a system update to seize control of Song. As POMMEDOR leaves, Chambers suddenly collapses in violent convulsions, her mind flooded with horrific hallucinations while an unseen force commandeers her body. In her final moments, the storage disk falls from her lifeless hand, the true evolutionary potential of Branch fully realized.

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