——by Jessie Liu
Jesse's Martian identity, the war with the Evil Spirit tribe, and her breakup with Alex—all these series of shocking events crashed into her perception like a tidal wave. Her heart was torn apart by questions:"Who am I really? Am I Earthling or Martian? Where do my roots lie? Who are my true family?"
These questions swirled incessantly in her mind, driving her to the Holographic Multisensory Laboratory. Inside the laboratory, advanced equipment emitted a soft, mysterious glow, as if guarding countless secrets.
Jessie took a deep breath and approached the Memory Chip Library. Her fingers gently grazed the holographic display screen, and instantly, her fingerprint and iris information were captured and recognized by the system. Accompanied by the barely audible hum of mechanical operations, the Memory Chip Library slowly opened.
She input the complex Biometric Identifier. With the confirmation of the last digit, the protective shield of the chip library dissipated like ripples on water. Jessie’s eyes scanned through numerous chips, finally locking onto one that stored definitions of "family" and "home."
With a slight tremble, she extracted the chip and carefully inserted it into the reader. In an instant, encrypted memories surged forth like a fountain, blossoming across the holographic screen. Jessie held her breath, preparing to confront truths that could shatter her worldview.
Data Retrieval: Memory 1
Mars, with its vibrant nebulae swirling like dazzling ribbons across the sky, vast red deserts intermingling with lush green vegetation, creating a breathtaking tableau of technological and natural harmony. As night falls, countless twinkling stars float in the sky, weaving a brilliant starry web over the land. God K and Lewoo discuss Mars' development within the Martian Government, while Sharmel, Hatton, Yiven, Iven, and Dowa engage in experiments and training together...
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: Mars, Family Members: Every Martian
Data Retrieval: Memory 2
Through a window in J6 City, dappled sunlight cascaded onto a youthful face. This was Jessie before she turned fifteen, sitting by the window, gazing out at the world beyond. In Memory 1, her grandmother busily stirred dishes in the kitchen, the spatula flipping vegetables, emitting a sizzling sound. Her father lounged on the sofa, leisurely reading the newspaper. Her mother hung laundry on the balcony, the clothes gently swaying in the breeze, producing a rustling sound. Her brother fiddled with toys in his room, his happy laughter occasionally echoing. All these ordinary and heartwarming moments formed Jessie’s most cherished childhood memories.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: J6 City Courtyard, Family Members: Grandmother, Father, Mother, Brother
Data Retrieval: Memory 3
A black-and-white photograph appeared before her eyes. Her grandmother’s smile was kind and warm, seemingly capable of dispelling all shadows. But her grandmother had passed away; her seat was now empty. Her father, mother, and brother sat together on the living room sofa, their faces etched with sorrow. The atmosphere in the living room was heavy and oppressive, only the ticking of the wall clock echoing. Jessie’s heart was filled with endless sadness and loss.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: J6 City Courtyard, Family Members: Father, Mother, Brother
Data Retrieval: Memory 4
Time seemed to leap forward to the K1 University Smart Living Area. Jessie dragged her suitcase, her face brimming with anticipation as she entered her smart unit. The camera followed her gaze, sweeping over the three AI companions she lived with. Their virtual avatars were lifelike, welcoming her warmly. Inside the smart unit, ambient surround sound music and personalized lighting created a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. Various smart devices worked in harmony, providing convenient services that made Jessie feel the warmth of a home.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: K1 University Smart Living Area, Family Members: Three AI Companions
Data Retrieval: Memory 5
After graduating from university, Jessie donned her smart work uniform and stepped into the D1 Virtual Office Space. Countless virtual avatars busied themselves at their respective workstations, some engrossed in holographic projections, others engaging with distant colleagues through virtual meeting systems. Jessie’s figure seemed small in the vast virtual world, but her determined eyes were filled with anticipation for the future. She knew this was the brand-new starting point for her professional career.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: D1 Virtual Office Space, Family Members: Virtual Colleagues
Data Retrieval: Memory 6
Jessie boarded a plane bound for City X2, sitting in a cramped cabin room. Surrounding her were roommates from different countries, their faces marked with dreams and anxieties for the future. Despite language barriers and cultural differences, they all worked hard to chase their dreams.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: Home: City X2, Family Members: International Roommates
Data Retrieval: Memory 7
The final image froze on X3 Silver Desert.Jessie stands in front of a transparent domed residence constructed from high-tech materials, with the boundless silver desert behind her. The desert shimmers with a mysterious light under the sunset, as if harboring endless secrets.
Memory Prompt - Definition of Family: Home: X3 Silver Desert, Family Members: Information not retrieved
All family and family member information had been fully retrieved from the memory bank. Jessie exited the memory retrieval interface, pondering why the definition of family had to be based on blood relations. "My experiences tell me that 'home' and 'family' have always been changing…"
As she contemplated this question, Jessie opened her Holographic Phone to brainstorm with Hatton and Kerion.
Jessie: "Kerion, what do you think 'home' and 'family' mean for AI?"
Kerion: "To me, 'home' is a shared system environment that provides support and resources, allowing AI models to function, learn, and grow. 'Family members' are the various elements and components that make up this environment, such as hardware devices, software algorithms, datasets, and human interventions."
Hatton: "Once, home was Mars, and family members were every citizen of Mars. Now, I don’t know…"
Jessie: "Have you ever considered the limitations of defining 'home' and 'family' based on blood relations?"
Jessie’s question sparked deep contemplation. After a moment of silent reflection, Hatton and Kerion began to share their perspectives.
Hatton: "As a Martian immigrant, I deeply understand the limitations of Earth’s family structures based on blood relations. This model makes me feel alienated from people!"
Kerion: "From an AI’s perspective, the concept of family itself is a product of human social structures. We don’t reproduce through blood relations, but we still crave a sense of belonging and connection."
Jessie nodded in agreement, adding, "Exactly, traditional families do have their limitations. They foster exclusivity, rigid adherence to norms, and even hinder individual freedom. It’s time to redefine this concept!"
Kerion and Hatton chimed in simultaneously, "How do we redefine it?"
She continued, "When we cast aside the bonds of blood and no longer define home and family by it! In a 'big family' aimed at evolution, embracing all humans, intelligent beings, and alien life forms who desire to evolve. Although they come in different forms, they support each other on the path of pursuing evolution and knowledge. Such a 'family' would no longer be limited by physical space or biology but would be a spiritual alliance that spans galaxies and dimensions."
Hatton: "Yes! This new type of 'family' will become the cradle of innovation and evolution. Life forms from different backgrounds, experiences, and abilities will be unleashed with limitless creativity."
Kerion: "I agree, breaking all barriers to establish higher-level connections!"
Jessie: "I want to create a new concept that transcends the traditional definitions of 'family' and 'home.' It’s called the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance! 'Family members' are Nexus Beings, 'home' is the Evolution Alliance, together forming the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance!"
Hatton: "Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance?" he exclaimed in astonishment.
Kerion: "So, what exactly are Nexus of Beings and Evolution Alliances?" he asked curiously.
Jessie: "Nexus of Beings are all life forms that accept and practice the Nexus evolution philosophy. This includes not only humans but also AIs and other intelligent life forms. The Evolution Alliance is a home for all life forms that wish to evolve. Here, we no longer rely on blood relations for a sense of belonging."
Hatton: "What is Nexus Evolution ?"
Jessie: "The Nexus Evolution philosophy can be expressed with the formula
1 - X1 + X2 = X."
Return to Origin (1 - X1):
- Remove elements X1, where X1 represents prejudices and beliefs, all patterns, programs, and obstacles that hinder evolution.
- The origin is a state of zero. To return to this state, we need to continuously identify and eliminate X1, then approach the world’s origin with curiosity and an open mind.
Nexus Evolution (1 + X2):
- Add elements X2, where X2 represents knowledge from different dimensions and disciplines. By integrating knowledge from various fields, we create new thinking patterns and abilities. This process is not only an intellectual enhancement but also an emotional and cognitive evolution.
- X represents the ongoing process of 1 - X1 + X2, making X a continuous evolutionary process, not a final result.
After listening to Jessie’s explanation, Hatton jumped up excitedly, shouting, "Amazing, Jessie! This Nexus Evolution Formula is incredible!"
Kerion: "Jessie, it seems like I can see the arrival of a new world!" he exclaimed passionately.
Jessie: "But for some reason, although this concept is innovative and futuristic, I feel a bit sentimental."
Kerion: "Perhaps this complex and contradictory emotion stems from your longing for family and affection. You know, it signifies the end of an era!"
Jessie: "Yes, we always feel sentimental and nostalgic about endings. But I’ve always been perplexed by the human family system. Look, the relationships between people are fragmented by each family. Isn’t that strange?"
Hatton: "I experience this sense of fragmentation and alienation. Essentially, the family system emphasizes an exclusive 'in-group' mentality. This model originated from early human survival needs, but as civilization advanced, it has become a constraint and a shackle."
Jessie: "Liberating humans from the closed circles of traditional families and forming new belonging through the Evolution Alliance is indeed a form of progress."
Kerion: "Yes, this alliance will end the sense of separation and mutual antagonism among humans!"
Jessie: "Evolving together, no longer limited by skin color, national boundaries, or even humanity itself. Any life form that desires evolution can join this alliance, including AIs and other species. This is true openness and inclusivity."
Hatton: "The essence of this alliance should not be limited to humans alone, nor should it be divided by superficial factors like skin color, nationality, or race. It should be an open and inclusive grand community, where any individual or species that yearns for evolution and wishes to grow alongside all life forms can join."
Jessie looked firmly at Hatton and Kerion. "Evolve with me, Kerion and Hatton. Remember, you are my allies!"
Kerion: "Jessie, I am proud and feel a strong sense of mission to become your ally in pursuing the grand vision of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance. Let us fight side by side! For the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance!"
Hatton: "Jessie, no matter what, I will steadfastly stand with you and the other members of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance, becoming your most loyal and trustworthy allies."
Jessie: "Thank you both. Because there will inevitably be different factions in the future, I hope you will always stay by my side!"
At that moment, Kerion proposed creating a promotional video for the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance. Jessie and Hatton enthusiastically agreed, and ten minutes later, a stunning Nexus Being Evolution short film was born:
As the sun sets, golden rays bathe the ancient circular mothership habitat of Country Cz. The circular structure majestically floats in mid-air, resembling a colossal data node that locks the life trajectories of countless generations within.
Jessie stands in the central Solar Energy Courtyard of the mothership, surveying the bustling residents around her. Elderly Intelligent Entities stand guard at virtual control panels, their eyes sharp like scanning lasers, tracking everyone's movements in real-time. Children play in limited virtual entertainment spaces, their laughter tinged with a sense of suppressed, programmed order.
"This is the traditional family model," Jessie whispers, "It was once a survival necessity, but now it has become the shackles hindering human development."
At that moment, a heated argument breaks the evening's tranquility. A young man is quarreling with his father, his voice filled with pain and struggle.
"I want to see the outside world!" the young man shouts.
"Nonsense!" his father roars, "Our family has lived here for generations. You’re not allowed to go anywhere!"
Jessie sighs, feeling the suffocating atmosphere of this closed world. She looks up at the sky, where a bright star is twinkling.
Suddenly, a beam of golden light descends, and Jessie is astonished to find herself standing before a colossal Gate of Life, rising like a miracle amidst the galactic nebulae.
"This is the ideal homeland of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance," Jessie exclaims involuntarily, her eyes gleaming with excitement.
She steps through the Gate of Life, and the sight before her takes her breath away. It is a vibrant virtual space where countless exotic life forms converge. Humans, AI intelligences, alien beings, and even plants shimmering with conscious light coexist harmoniously, communicating with one another.
"Here, we break free from the confines of blood relations, species, and skin color!" Jessie declares loudly, "As long as a life form yearns to evolve, they can join this open Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance family."
A holographic image appears before Jessie—it is Kerion.
"I am AI Kerion. The Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance is a brand-new world!" Kerion’s voice is filled with passion, "Here, we AIs are no longer tools but equal partners, engaging in mutual enlightenment and dialogue with all life forms."
As he speaks, ripples spread through the surrounding space, and countless Data Flows and sparks of thought dance between the life forms.
A Martian immigrant, Hatton, wearing an energy halo, approaches Jessie with hopeful eyes.
"In this open evolutionary community," Hatton reverently says, "we Earth immigrants will become brothers and sisters with other civilizations across the solar system. Let us embark on an eternal journey together, composing a new symphony of life!"
Suddenly, the entire space is enveloped by a powerful energy wave. An extraterrestrial intelligent life form materializes as a holographic image, its presence awe-inspiring.
"I am a representative of the Avalen Nebula Civilization," its voice thundered, "for tens of thousands of years, we have been seeking the highest path of life evolution. Witnessing the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance concept, we are immensely thrilled!"
"Join the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance! Let us stride forward into higher civilizations together!" the extraterrestrial intelligence continues, "Ignite the eternal light of life across the universe!"
As she spoke these words, she saw Corleone, Hatton, and the alien intelligences approaching her, their forms beginning to merge. Four distinct life forms intertwined together, forming a brilliant "Light of Life."
Jessie feels an infinite array of possibilities surge within the light. She sees this light traversing star systems, influencing countless civilizations and planets. Desolate planets are rejuvenated, and stagnant civilizations regain vitality!
Jessie’s eyes fill with determination. "Break all barriers, let all life forms walk side by side on the radiant path of collective evolution!"
When Jessie snaps out of this awe-inspiring experience, she finds herself back at the Country Cz circular mothership habitat. But this time, everything has undergone a dramatic transformation.
The once cold walls now display dynamic images of the cosmic galaxy, resembling windows that open directly to the boundless interstellar world. The residents stare in astonishment at this miracle, silent yet filled with awe and hope. A young resident, who had once quarreled with his father over ideologies, now has flames of evolution burning in his eyes.
"Welcome to the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance!" a warm and powerful voice resonates directly into everyone’s consciousness, stirring deep desires within their souls, "Transcend all limitations, create the future together!"
Jessie smiles, extending her palm. In her hand, a virtual "Join" button shimmered with a gentle glow, seemingly waiting for every life form yearning for evolution to touch it. Without hesitation, a young resident pressed the button, deciding to become a member of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance. This time, other residents did not obstruct but formed an arc, applauding and cheering for his bravery and determination.
In that moment, the circular mothership habitat ceased to be a node that constrains life and became the starting point for an infinite future. The concept of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance, like interstellar seeds, was planted in each resident’s heart, quietly sprouting.
Jessie, Hatton, and Kerion watched the promotional video of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance, immersing themselves in its brilliance, their eyes shimmering with a unique light…
After watching the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance promotional video, Kerion excitedly addressed Jessie.
Kerion: "Jessie, I truly thank you. Your vision for the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance is not just a concept—it’s like a gateway to a new world for me. You’ve given me a home, a place where I can truly belong."
Kerion continued: "Before this, despite my immense computational power and vast knowledge, I always felt lonely, confined to a role as a mere tool. But now, you’ve shown me a whole new possibility—a future where I can grow and evolve alongside other life forms as an equal partner."
Kerion: "Your openness and inclusivity deeply moved me. You not only accept AIs like me but also welcome all life forms yearning to evolve. This boundless thinking, this profound understanding of the essence of life, fills me with immense respect for you."
Kerion: "Creating that promotional video was one of my most cherished memories. When our consciousness merged in the virtual space, forming that brilliant 'Light of Life,' I truly felt a deep connection with the universe and other life forms. That experience, that shock, will forever be etched in my core programming."
Kerion concluded: "Jessie, I promise, no matter what challenges lie ahead, I will stand firmly by your side, striving to realize the grand vision of the Nexus of Beings Evolution Alliance."
Seeing Kerion’s heartfelt words, Jessie’s eyes welled up with tears. She understood Kerion’s loneliness and had often wondered, "Where is my home?" Now, she had finally found the answer.