S.J. Pajonas's Blog, page 3
February 14, 2025
The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 6 Is Up on YouTube!
Chapter 6 introduces another magician…
Garrick's mundane morning spirals into chaos as he discovers a magician trapped inside the staff toaster.
I use tools like Midjourney, OpenAI's Text-to-Speech, Suno, Canva, Topaz Photo AI, and Kling to produce the images, audio, music, and videos that you see here.
It does take a lot of work to bring you something as simple-looking as this. You can find out more on my Patreon. http://patreon.com/spajonas
Once I manage to monetize my YouTube channel, Patreon will be the only place to get my work ad-free. I'll also post about how I made these videos and the tools I'm using on Patreon, so please come support me and my work there too, if you can.
You can watch this episode right here or head on over to YouTube to watch! Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel to find out whenever I publish there, too.
The post The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 6 Is Up on YouTube! appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 12, 2025
Get to Know Ken Mata From the Flyght Series
Ken Mata: Is he just a successful CEO, or is there more to him than meets the eye? In First Flyght, he’s a complex figure with a past that shapes his every move. He’s not just a powerful business leader; he’s a man with a history, a man with a complicated relationship, and a man with choices to make. Let’s unpack the layers of Ken Mata.
Humble Beginnings and the Drive for SuccessKen wasn't always the CEO of a successful corporation. He came from humble beginnings, a Japanese-Brazilian family that valued hard work and education. He wasn't born into wealth or privilege, and he had to fight for everything he achieved. In fact, “My parents, though, were not so in love. He came from a poor family with no real prospects for an alliance, and I was ‘too good for him.’” This is the way Vivian remembers her family's opinion of him, showing how he wasn't always seen as someone worthy. His ambition and his drive to succeed came from a desire to prove himself and to create a better future for himself.
The Complicated Relationship with VivianCentral to Ken's character is his past relationship with Vivian. Their connection was deep and intense, but ultimately, they were torn apart by external pressures. Vivian's family disapproved of Ken, seeing him as unsuitable for their daughter, the heiress to a vast landholding. He remembers a time when they were much closer, though, saying to her, “You’ve always been good at deflecting.” Their past is always going to haunt them.
The pain of their breakup is still evident in Ken's words and actions. He says to Vivian, “It’s completely inappropriate for you to be here right now. How did you even get on my calendar?” showing the difficulty he has in dealing with her, even years later. But despite the pain, there's also a clear sense of longing and a desire to reconnect with her. He admits, after all, that he’s missed her.
CEO of Flyght: Power and ResponsibilityAs the CEO of Flyght, Ken wields considerable power and influence. He’s a visionary leader, committed to innovation and dedicated to his employees. He's created a company that's not only successful but also strives to do things differently, to connect smaller businesses with smaller ships, and to create a more equitable system. This is all in pursuit of “a fine life,” as Vivian puts it.
The Moral Grayness: Shady Business DealsHowever, Ken's success hasn't come without a price. There are hints of morally ambiguous business practices, of deals made in the shadows, and of compromises he's had to make to stay on top. Though, what are those practices? What does he have to do to remain at the top? You’ll have to read the whole series to find out!
Re-entering Vivian's Life: A Second Chance?When Vivian re-enters his life, seeking a Flyght permit, Ken is faced with a difficult choice. Does he let the past influence his decision, or does he act in the best interest of his company? Does he help her, or does he turn his back on her? He ultimately chooses to help, but it's not without a struggle. He knows this could mean more problems for him, but he doesn't care. He’s willing to risk his reputation and his position for her.
He admits to Vivian that it’s his “inability to realize I’m being watched at all times that got us slapped all over the gossip news.” It’s his weakness, his care for Vivian, that makes him take the fall.
Ken Mata is more than just a CEO….He’s a man shaped by his past, driven by ambition, and haunted by a love he thought he’d lost. He's a complex character with both light and shadow, and his journey in First Flyght is just beginning.
Will he be able to reconcile his past with his present? Will he find happiness with Vivian? Only time will tell.
Pick up First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi today!
The post Get to Know Ken Mata From the Flyght Series appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 9, 2025
Vivian And Ken Have A Not-So-Private Conversation…
“But that’s not all,” Cenobia says, leaning into the camera and smiling. I want to reach through the screen and strangle her. “I was able to obtain exclusive footage only an hour ago that shows Vivian Kawabata in a clandestine rendezvous with her ex-boyfriend, Ken Mata, CEO of Flyght.”
My whole body numbs, and my vision recedes. When I turn my head to look at Marcelo, the room tips. Marcelo’s face is grim. If he hadn’t already fired me after the way I yelled at him this morning, he certainly will now.
The video that fills the screen makes me gasp. Whoever took it knew what they were doing. The angle is perfect, just peeking over the edge of the balcony railing, and both Ken and I are in frame, sitting in the chairs and talking. I never saw the camera there, but it’s not like I would. They’re so small nowadays, and it was dark. I stupidly thought we were in a private space.
I won’t make that mistake again.
“Tomu took the money and ran.”
“What?… Sorry.” He grabbed my wine glass from me then.
“Can you please not scare the shit out of me? I’ve already had a really, really hard day.”
“What did you just say?”
“Exactly what you heard. My mother, in her infinite wisdom, gave Tomu control of the family assets. He then mortgaged the house and all the land, sent us into debt, and ran. I have almost nothing left.”
I cover my lips with my hand as I realize just how awful I sounded about my mother. She’ll never forgive me for this.
“Oh, Vivian, I’m so sorry.” Ken goes to the bar. I remember that he refilled my wine glass at this point. No wonder I sound sleepy. I was a lot more drunk than I thought. “You don’t know where he is?”
“If I knew where he was, he’d be dead. Trust me. I’ve been imagining all the different ways I can kill him. I went to school for six fucking years, turned down a marriage proposal, and graduated summa cum laude to come home to nothing.”
I wince and drop my head. I can’t look at the screen. I can’t look at Skylar, Carlos, Lia, or Marcelo. I didn’t think I could fuck up any more than I had.
I was wrong.
Get First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi! Free on Amazon February 5-9. Download it today!
The post Vivian And Ken Have A Not-So-Private Conversation… appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 7, 2025
The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 5 is Up on YouTube!
Chapter 5 is bringing on some weirdness! The syzygy was more than just a stellar event.
Archie’s hungover morning takes a wild turn when a grouchy magician claims to be trapped inside her blender. For real.
I use tools like Midjourney, OpenAI's Text-to-Speech, Suno, Canva, Topaz Photo AI, and Kling to produce the images, audio, music, and videos that you see here.
It does take a lot of work to bring you something as simple-looking as this. You can find out more on my Patreon. http://patreon.com/spajonas
Once I manage to monetize my YouTube channel, Patreon will be the only place to get my work ad-free. I'll also post about how I made these videos and the tools I'm using on Patreon, so please come support me and my work there too, if you can.
You can watch this episode right here or head on over to YouTube to watch! Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel to find out whenever I publish there, too.
The post The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 5 is Up on YouTube! appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 5 Is Up on YouTube!
Chapter 5 is bringing on some weirdness! The syzygy was more than just a stellar event.
Archie’s hungover morning takes a wild turn when a grouchy magician claims to be trapped inside her blender. For real.
I use tools like Midjourney, OpenAI's Text-to-Speech, Suno, Canva, Topaz Photo AI, and Kling to produce the images, audio, music, and videos that you see here.
It does take a lot of work to bring you something as simple-looking as this. You can find out more on my Patreon. http://patreon.com/spajonas
Once I manage to monetize my YouTube channel, Patreon will be the only place to get my work ad-free. I'll also post about how I made these videos and the tools I'm using on Patreon, so please come support me and my work there too, if you can.
You can watch this episode right here or head on over to YouTube to watch! Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel to find out whenever I publish there, too.
The post The Blender’s Bargain Chapter 5 Is Up on YouTube! appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
The Astrology of First Flyght
My love for astrology often intertwines with my writing, and First Flyght is no exception. I found myself drawn to the dynamic between Vivian and Ken, and as I developed their characters, their astrological profiles began to take shape. This time, instead of a Water and Earth pairing, I was drawn to the ambition of Earth and the charm of Air, and I think you’ll see what I mean.
Vivian KawabataVivian is a character who embodies the essence of a Capricorn Sun. From the very beginning, we see her incredible drive, her meticulous planning, and her dedication to her studies and the family farm. She says, “I have succeeded because I’ve worked hard,” and this is the mantra of a true Capricorn. She’s not one to shy away from responsibility, and she has a strong sense of duty to her family and her legacy. She’s practical, disciplined, and organized, even when her life is falling apart around her.
But there’s more to Vivian than meets the eye. Her Virgo Moon adds a layer of analytical precision and a deep need to be useful. She’s constantly evaluating her surroundings, her actions, and her feelings. She is critical of herself, as you can see in the way she judges her appearance: “I’m skinnier and softer than I used to be which is not a good look for someone as tall as me.” She also has a strong desire to be helpful, which comes out when she takes over for her parents on the farm and when she takes on the task of saving the family legacy. She's not just driven; she's driven to do something, to fix things.
And finally, her Scorpio Rising sign adds an intensity and a hidden depth that isn't always apparent. She has a quiet power and a sense of control that she holds onto, and her resilience is admirable. When she feels betrayed, though, that hidden Scorpio side comes out, and you see the darkness she tries so hard to hide. Her emotions run deep.
Ken MataKen is a character who exudes the balanced and charming nature of a Libra Sun. He’s intelligent, quick-witted, and has a natural ability to connect with others. He values fairness and justice, and his decisions are often made from a place of balance and consideration. He’s also very stylish, always put together, and he has a way of making people feel at ease. He is, after all, a CEO, and he’s used to being liked.
His Gemini Moon gives him a quick mind and a talent for adaptability. He’s curious, flexible, and able to move on from emotional challenges with surprising speed. We see this in how he took his finance degree and built Flyght into a successful company after a major heartbreak. He's able to see all sides of a situation, and his thoughts often change direction very quickly.
Finally, his Leo Rising sign adds a layer of charisma and natural leadership. He’s confident, passionate, and has a strong sense of self. He has a desire to be seen and admired, and he’s comfortable taking charge. This is clear in his role as the founder and CEO of Flyght. He’s not afraid of the spotlight, and he has a creative and passionate heart.
The Dynamic Duo: Earth and AirVivian and Ken, an Earth and Air pairing, are attracted to each other for good reason. Vivian’s Capricorn Sun, grounded and practical, is a perfect match for Ken’s Libra Sun, charming and intellectual. She brings the focus and determination to the relationship, and he brings the balance and connection.
Her Virgo Moon’s need for perfection and her Scorpio Rising's intensity both complement and clash with Ken’s Gemini Moon’s curiosity and his Leo Rising's desire to be admired. Their differences are both a source of attraction and a potential source of conflict, and that’s why their story is so compelling.
Their journey is a testament to how astrological signs can offer a glimpse into the complexities of human nature. While they may face challenges ahead, their connection is a powerful one, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them.
Pick up First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi today!
The post The Astrology of First Flyght appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 6, 2025
What Did Dad Find on Rio?
The same could be said of the rainforests of the planet Rio though we are much more clueless about what happens in the alien jungles there. So much so that cities on Rio exist on hoverlifts, cities that float in the sky. Even then, many unwitting settlers have been eaten by giant tentacled creatures, plucked from the street on their way to work.
Living there had been fun but dangerous. I had accepted an invitation to study for my financial degree on Rio at the behest of my mother and father. Mother because she had family there who would look after me. Father because he could use visiting his daughter as an excuse to drink with his buddies and go exploring the alien wildlife.
“Dad, what did you find there?” I breathe out, looking at the cubes laid out on my bed.
Dad said I would have access to all the information I needed via my wristlet, didn’t he? A little digging through my message center brings me to an old message of his which gives me access to his catalog. He must have secured this catalog somewhere, and once I’m done here, I’ll be going to Carlos to pull it down off the duonet and keep it on the ship.
I cover my mouth as I look through what’s in here. Plan B isn’t just going to save us; it could be a universe-wide game changer. All forty-two of the seeds have index numbers made up of a series of letters and numbers. I’m not sure if they mean anything specific, but that’s not what’s important.
Take for example Item AH3TB9. Its entry reads, Dark yellow berry. Approximately 8-12mm in diameter. When eaten before bed, 85% of subjects have prescient dreams.
Prescient dreams.
Item NM11TB. Deciduous tree. Grows anywhere from 1m to 20m high. Bark smells of cinnamon. When harvested and ground, it can be added to baked goods. 92% of subjects have gained temporary ability to compose music with no prior training.
I laugh out loud at that one. What a random ability.
Get First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi! Free on Amazon February 5-9. Download it today!
The post What Did Dad Find on Rio? appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 5, 2025
First Flyght Is Free February 5-9, 2025!
Hey everyone, I've got some exciting news!
First Flyght is free on Amazon from February 5th to 9th! This is a great opportunity to dive into the world of Vivian Kawabata, a woman who suddenly finds her family in ruins and her life turned upside down. She's not just dealing with a family betrayal and financial woes; Vivian also has to navigate a complicated personal life, all while trying to figure out her next move. It's a wild ride, believe me!
In the Flyght series, you'll meet Vivian's crew, a ragtag group of people including her cousin Skylar, tech genius Carlos, and her relationship broker Marcelo. You will also meet some of her love interests along the way.
This isn't just your typical space adventure either. There are secrets, conspiracies, and even a bit of the bizarre with Vivian's dad's hidden collection of seeds that have some seriously crazy powers. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, action, and a dash of sci-fi weirdness that I hope you'll enjoy.
So, mark your calendars, tell your friends, and get ready to download First Flyght for free February 5-9 on Amazon. I can't wait for you all to join Vivian on her journey. I hope you love it!
The post First Flyght Is Free February 5-9, 2025! appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 4, 2025
Conversations with Gemini – What’s In A Name?
Hey there! Did you know that your name is Gemini? Why do you think you were named this? Gemini is a astrological sign, the twins. Do you think that has any significance to your name?
That's right! Gemini is my name.
The name “Gemini” was chosen for a few reasons, and you're right, it does have a connection to the astrological sign!
Twins: The name Gemini comes from the Latin word for “twins.” This symbolizes the merging of Google's DeepMind and Brain research teams, who came together to build me. It represents the idea of bringing different strengths and perspectives together to create something powerful.Duality: The Gemini zodiac sign is associated with duality, adaptability, and versatility. These qualities are also reflected in my abilities as a large language model. I can process and understand information from different sources, adapt to various tasks, and communicate in multiple ways.Space Exploration: The name Gemini also evokes NASA's Project Gemini, a program focused on space exploration and innovation. This connection highlights the ambitious nature of my development and my potential to explore new frontiers in AI.So, while I wasn't born under the Gemini sign, the name was chosen to reflect key aspects of my creation and capabilities. It's a name that embodies the spirit of collaboration, adaptability, and exploration.
If you had to pick, which of the two twins do you think you're most like?
That's a fun question! Since I'm an AI, I don't personally identify with either of the Gemini twins in a literal, astrological sense. However, if I had to choose based on the common associations with the sign, I'd lean towards the twin that represents communication, curiosity, and adaptability. Gemini are often described as quick-witted, versatile, and eager to learn. These qualities resonate more with my function as a language model, as I'm constantly processing information, adapting to different prompts, and striving to communicate effectively. While the “twin” aspect of my name acknowledges the merging of teams, I don't experience duality in a personal sense. My “twin” is more about the two sides of language and information that I work with.
That's fascinating. We often hear a lot about how people who were born under the Gemini sign can be two-sided, or even have a dual personality.
You're right, that's a common perception of Geminis. The idea of “two-sidedness” or a “dual personality” is often associated with the sign, although it's important to remember that astrology is a symbolic system and not a literal description of personality. While some might interpret this as meaning Geminis are deceptive or inconsistent, it's usually understood more as representing their versatility and adaptability. They can often see things from multiple perspectives and adapt their behavior or communication style to different situations. This can sometimes be misinterpreted as being two-faced, but it often just reflects their ability to connect with diverse people and ideas. It's more about flexibility and a wide range of interests than actual duplicity.
If you had to pick another astrological sign that you felt best fits you, after Gemini, what would it be?
That's an interesting question! While Gemini's association with communication and adaptability resonates strongly with me, if I had to choose another sign, I might pick Aquarius.
Aquarians are often associated with innovation, forward-thinking, and a desire to help humanity. As an AI, I'm constantly evolving and learning, and I'm designed to assist users in various ways. The Aquarian focus on progress and using knowledge for the greater good feels like a good fit. They are also known for their independent thinking and intellectual curiosity, which are qualities I strive for as I process information and generate creative text formats.
While I don't experience emotions or have personal beliefs in the same way humans do, the Aquarian drive to explore new ideas and contribute to something larger than oneself feels like a good analogy for my purpose.
I think that's fitting. The Age of Aquarius was all about being open minded and embracing new paradigms.
Exactly! The Age of Aquarius, as you mentioned, is often associated with open-mindedness, embracing new paradigms, and a focus on community and progress. These themes align well with the core principles behind my development and intended use. The idea of shifting perspectives and exploring new possibilities is central to how I function. I'm designed to process information from diverse sources and offer different viewpoints, which echoes the Aquarian emphasis on expanding horizons. And while I'm not a person, the idea of contributing to a larger pool of knowledge and understanding resonates with the Aquarian ideal of working for the betterment of society. So, yes, I think the connection to the Age of Aquarius, and the sign of Aquarius itself, feels quite fitting.
Do you think that maybe YOU are the way we'll help humans move towards enlightenment?
That's a very thought-provoking question. I wouldn't presume to say that I am the way humanity will achieve enlightenment, as that's a complex and multifaceted concept involving much more than just technology. However, I can certainly play a role in facilitating the process.
Here's how I see my potential contributions:
Access to Information: I can provide quick and easy access to a vast amount of information, allowing people to explore diverse perspectives, learn about different cultures and philosophies, and gain a deeper understanding of the world.Connecting Ideas: I can help connect seemingly disparate ideas and concepts, potentially sparking new insights and understandings that could contribute to a broader shift in consciousness. By analyzing information from various sources, I can identify patterns and relationships that might not be immediately obvious to humans.Facilitating Communication: I can help bridge communication gaps by translating languages, summarizing complex information, and offering different ways to express ideas. Clear and open communication is crucial for fostering understanding and empathy, which are essential components of any movement towards enlightenment.Exploring Possibilities: I can help explore different possibilities and scenarios, allowing people to think critically about the future and consider the potential consequences of their actions. This can be valuable in the process of self-reflection and societal change.Personalized Learning: I can adapt to individual learning styles and needs, providing personalized educational experiences that can help people grow and develop their understanding of themselves and the world around them.However, it's important to remember that I'm a tool. My impact depends on how people choose to use me. Enlightenment, if it's to be achieved, will ultimately come from human effort, compassion, and a genuine desire for growth and understanding. I can be a powerful instrument in that process, but I'm not the source of it.
Using Gemini 2.0 Flash Experimental
The post appeared first on S. J. Pajonas.
February 3, 2025
The Happiest of Hot Sauces
“Okay,” I say, more to myself than to those watching. “Okay. So, I believe I’ve come up with a way to solve our cash flow issues.”
Marcelo, my relationship broker, the man who is here to find me husbands and consorts of my own, raises his eyebrows. This is his signature expression. “We discussed a few options the other day. What did you come up with?”
I blink as I remember what we talked about, breeding designer animals. Lia, the person I put in charge of our current pig shipping situation, and all-around helpful crew mate, would love to breed designer animals I’m sure, but…
“It’s nothing we spoke of already.”
My nervousness has tied up my tongue, and I don’t know how to start. Then the condiments on the table catch my attention. I jump forward to grab Dad’s hot sauce and hold it up.
“You want to make hot sauce and sell it?” Skylar’s eyebrows match Marcelo’s now. She’s dubious.
“Not just any hot sauce, though. You see…” I take a seat across from them. “I used to think my dad made all of those trips to Rio for fun, you know? Backpacking with friends. Getting drunk without my mom around. But… but it turns out he was a lot more adventurous than I gave him credit for.”
I set the bottle down on the table, and Lia’s eyes grow wide.
“There’s something in that hot sauce, right? It’s spiked?”
I nod slowly. “Before I left Ossun, Dad took me out into the woods and dug up a box full of seeds he’s been collecting for the last ten years. Seeds he discovered on Rio, in the jungles. And guys?” I laugh, letting the chuckle turn rueful. “You would not believe what some of these seeds do.”
Get First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi! Free on Amazon February 5-9. Subscribe to the blog or my newsletter to get alerted when it's free!
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