FUTURESCALE

Can AI Break Stories Like Hollywood Does?

With a process called Story Breaking, your favorite TV shows are plotted in a writer's room where the stories are "broken" into their component beats and arranged into the outline from which a script can be written.

With the recent release of OpenAI's ChatGPT product, we wondered if AI could help with the story breaking process.

The Idea

While working on a doomed NFT project in the depths of a bear market, an amazing thing happened.

The project, like many late-model NFTs came with interrelated lore and gaming components. A serialized story about a handpicked set of characters from the collection would have episode tie-in games associated with them, where game state was stored on the blockchain.

Though the project itself never took flight, the narrative, about a small group of orphaned, fledgling birds who must depend upon each other for survival, became the fodder for an experiment with the new chatbot that's all the rage, ChatGPT.

The concept for the series, its characters, and the first season's basic arc we already had in a handful of paragraphs. As well as a description of the inciting event that kicks everything in motion. That was our starting point for this experiment.

The Goal

Create complete outlines for the first season's episodes.

Outlines are not scripts. They don't contain a lot of dialog and action, just an organized list of moments where those should occur.

Our goal is to determine if this fancy new AI could sit in a writers' room with other writers and/or AIs and help storybreak a series into existence.

Creating a Prompt Flow

You can always just ask the AI to spit out a story, whole cloth ("Write me a new episode of Breaking Bad") but you won't have much control over the final product and its quality and continuity. While it may have been trained all the articles on story breaking on the internet, it doesn't mean that the AI will follow a rational procedure for generating its output.

We thought that the process of Story Breaking, where ideas go from rough to detailed over many hours of thought and discussion about each plot twist, each character's motivation, etc., could be applied in a multi-step AI prompt flow. Breaking big things down into smaller and smaller components, feeding the output from one level into the input of the next.

In order to produce a single story-aware suggestion, the AI needs a lot of information to stick the landing. Our experiment gives it a lot of relevant context to consider, and asks it for a the next piece of the puzzle.

We take care to prompt with only the relevant data, and in a iterative manner so that we go from the roughest idea to the most specific story content in a series of prompts. While doing this manually through ChatGPT is laborious at the moment (lots of copy paste, merging, and files, so many files...), we expect API access will make this a lot easier and more fun.

Essentially, we provide a brief description of the series, characters, season arc, etc. Then we get some suggestions back from the AI which can in turn be folded into the prompt for the next level down in the outline.

Drilling Down to the Beats

Ultimately an episode is a string of beats, which compose scenes, which compose acts, which compose the episode. Meanwhile the episode generally weaves 2 or 3 separate stories together.

An entire season of episodes generally has an arc with an inciting incident at the start and a climax at the end. The stories told by the episodes need to service that greater arc as they go.

It's a lot to keep straight. Let's see what the AI can do to, given the salient info at each step of the way.

First we want to get a feel for the season. What should happen at a high level in each episode?

Step 1 - Prompt for Season's Episode Summaries

We want to get a sense of what each episode will be about so that we can make sure it tracks with the season's overall arc. Just a sentence or two about each episode should suffice.

Prompt

You are the showrunner in a TV writers' room. Let's plan the episodes of a season.

I will give you:

• the show title, season number, and number of episodes
• the season arc
• the precinct (location where the story takes place)
• the main characters
• the inciting incident for the series
• the output format

You give me a list of episode descriptions ...

Series Info

• Title: Lil Birbs
• Season: 1
• Episodes: 10
• Logline: Five orphaned fledglings must learn to fly, socialize, and rely on each other to survive.

Season Arc

Lil Birbs is a story about five orphaned fledglings who must learn to fly, socialize, and prepare for their first migration.

Fledglings are just out of the nest, and so they are on the ground when a big tornado tears through their area, destroying their trees and their parents who were in them. Now these young birds of different species have to rely upon themselves and each other to survive.

Season ends when all the Lil Birbs have to set off on their first migration. The whole season is preparation for this moment.

Precinct

Near a tall oak in a field on the outskirts of the great forest. Many of the nearby trees are badly damaged. Branches and limbs are heaped all around, making it difficult for the small fledglings to move around or see for very far. They have been within fifty feet of this tree for their entire young lives.

• To the north is a placid lake.
• To the south, foothills rise toward distant mountains.
• To the east lies the great forest.
• To the west is a farmhouse and an old barn. The farmer likes birds, but his barn cat does not.

Character Sketches

• Willow, the Warbler

  • Willow is a natural-born communicator. Her sweet song is a soothing balm. She's light and quick so when she learns to fly, she'll be a speedy messenger. Her small size is often at odds with her outsized wit and determination.

• Azure, the Blue Jay

  • Azure learned in the nest that his sharp eye and keen sense of situational awareness would be important. Though he may not be much of a singer, he has a voice that carries; just the thing for alerting his friends to danger.

• Melody, the Mockingbird

  • Her innate sense of balance and agility will blossom into a skill for aerial acrobatics when she learns to fly. Until then, she practices another quirky talent, mimicking the songs of other birds. Or even the occasional car horn. DJ Melody spins the hits.

• Spike, the Starling

  • Even in the nest, Spike was an outsider. His real mother laid her egg in another bird's nest, as Starlings are often wont to do. Now he's an orphaned foster kid. It's a hard knock life. He seems tough and disagreeable to most, but he'll protect his friends to the bitter end. He knows how hard they are to come by.

• Ayana, the Mourning Dove

  • Ayana is patient and calm when others are aflutter. She is quite aware of her surroundings, she just doesn't react to them as reflexively as those around her. Given her druthers, she'll find a little patch of sun, stretch out her tiny but growing wings, and feel the world just being.

• Inaros, the wise old Owl

  • Inaros lives inside the tall oak tree on the outskirts of the forest. From his hole he can see the forest, the lake, and most of the nearby area.

Inciting Incident

Spring had been lovely and summer was just around the corner. Up in the trees, hatchlings grew into fledglings, and soon were free of their nests.

But on this particular day, this unseasonably warm afternoon, the sky turned black. Leaves on the maples folded back to accept the coming rain in that curious way they have. From the east, a deep rumbling arose and the ground trembled.

Then the willows went.

Rope-like branches whipped upward as decades-old trees were ripped from the ground. A whirling vortex of debris filled the sky.

Trembling together beneath a mighty oak that was spared, five fledglings peered out at the devastation.

"My tree is gone," cried Willow, a timid young warbler.

Azure, a keen-eyed blue jay, scanned the area. "All our trees are gone," he said.

From a hole high above them in the oak tree, Inaros, an old owl poked out his head. "What's all the noise? I'm trying to sleep!"

Output Format

Show: [the show name]

Season [the season #]

Episode [episode #]: [episode description]

AI Response (Episode Summaries)

Show: Lil Birbs

Episode 1: "Grounded"

As the tornado subsides, our five fledglings survey the wreckage of their homes. Under the guidance of the grumpy old owl, they grudgingly band together and build a shared nest in the remaining oak. Willow is elected the group's leader due to her cheerful and calming voice.

Episode 2: "First Flight"

The birds try to learn how to fly. Despite several humorous mishaps, they start to get the hang of it, but Willow struggles with her fear of heights. A heart-to-heart with Ayana helps her overcome her fear, resulting in a triumphant first flight.

Episode 3: "Sound of Music"

Melody's mimicry skills come into play when the birds find a forgotten windchime in the field. She replicates its sound to soothe them when they miss their parents. Meanwhile, Azure keeps an eye on the barn cat who seems to have taken an interest in the young birds.

Episode 4: "The Visitor"

A migrating bird lands near the oak. The fledglings learn about migration and realize they have to prepare for it. They seek advice from the visitor, who shares stories about his journeys. The concept of the journey to the south excites but also scares them.

Episode 5: "A Bird's-Eye View"

Azure leads the group in mapping the terrain around them from the sky. They take note of the barn, the lake, and the forest, setting the stage for future exploration. They encounter a hawk, who teaches them a tough but valuable lesson in staying alert.

Episode 6: "New Kids in the Flock"

Melody and Spike get into a squabble over Melody mimicking Spike's voice. The dispute escalates into a group argument that leads to them realizing they're not just survivors together, but a real family.

Episode 7: "Cats and Dogs"

The barn cat makes a bold attempt to attack the fledglings. Azure alerts the group, and together they manage to fend off the cat. Later, they meet the farmer's dog, a kind-hearted retriever who offers to help them stay safe from the cat.

Episode 8: "Ayana's Day Out"

Ayana wanders off to the foothills to find a sunny patch, but she gets lost. The others must use their combined skills to locate and bring her back to their oak safely, strengthening their bond in the process.

Episode 9: "Final Preparations"

With the migration approaching, the group scrambles to prepare. Willow, with Azure's help, charts out a rough course for their trip south. Spike helps them practice foraging, while Melody tries to keep everyone's spirits up with her song mimicry.

Episode 10 "Taking Flight"

As fall arrives, the fledglings take their first leap of faith and embark on their journey south. They overcome their fear, face challenges head-on, and celebrate their survival and unity. The season ends with them leaving their birthplace, soaring into the horizon, ready for their next big adventure.

Step 2 - Prompt for Episode's A, B, and C Stories

That was a great set of episode summaries that show us that it seems to grasp the big picture and can plan episodes along a season arc.

With all the above and the Episode 1 summary, we can prompt for the separate stories told in Episode 1.

Prompt

You are the showrunner in a TV writers' room.

Let's plan the A, B, and C stories of an episode.

I will give you

• show info
• episode info
• season arc
• precinct (location where the story takes place)
• character sketches
• inciting incident for the series
• output format

You give the episode's A, B, and C stories

Output Format

Show: [show title]

Season [season #], Episode [episode #]: [episode name]

Story [story letter]: [story description]

AI Response (Episode 1 Stories)

Show: Lil Birbs

Season 1, Episode 1: Grounded

Story A: In the aftermath of the devastating tornado, Willow, Azure, Melody, Spike, and Ayana must come to terms with their new reality. With their homes destroyed and their parents gone, survival becomes their top priority. Under the grumpy guidance of Inaros, the old owl, they begin to work together, putting their different skills to use. Willow's soothing songs, Azure's sharp eyes, Melody's mimicking ability, Spike's toughness, and Ayana's calm nature, all contribute to the process of building a new shared nest in the remaining oak. In this story, we see how Willow is naturally elected as the group's leader thanks to her ability to comfort and unite the others.

Story B: Azure spots a large branch that would be perfect for the new nest. However, it's located in a risky area, near the barn of the farmhouse. Azure, Melody, and Spike decide to venture out and retrieve it. Along the way, they must evade the predatory barn cat, leading to tense and humorous situations. Meanwhile, Willow and Ayana stay back to keep the nest-building going, providing a counterpoint of calm and determination.

Story C: Inaros is initially annoyed by the young birds. But as he observes their spirit and resilience, he warms up to them. Throughout the episode, he dispenses wisdom, reluctantly at first, then more willingly as he begins to care about the young ones' survival. His advice and guidance, often delivered in a gruff manner, end up being instrumental to the group's success. By the end of the episode, we see a softening in his demeanor, hinting at a mentor figure emerging for the fledglings in their new life.

Step 3 - Prompt for Episode's Scenes by Act

Those are some solid story ideas for the first episode to weave together, which all fit the characters' situation perfectly at the beginning of the series.

With all the above and the Episode 1 summary, we can prompt for its individual scenes by act.

Prompt

You are the showrunner in a TV writers' room.

Let's plan the scenes of an episode.

I will give you

• show info
• episode info
• season arc
• precinct (location where the story takes place)
• character sketches
• the episode's stories
• output format

You give me the brief summaries of scenes for the episode, numbering the scenes independently of their acts.

Output Format

Show: [show title]

Season [season #], Episode [episode #]: [episode name]

Act: [act #]

Scene [scene #]: [scene name]

[brief scene description]

AI Response (Episode 1 Scenes by Act)

Show: Lil Birbs

Season 1, Episode 1: Grounded

Scene 1: Fledglings' Grounded Nest

The five orphaned fledglings, Willow, Azure, Melody, Spike, and Ayana, survey the wreckage of their nest and mourn their lost parents. They begin to realize the gravity of their situation and the need to band together for survival.

Scene 2: Meeting Inaros

Inaros, the wise old Owl, watches the fledglings from his tree hole. He reluctantly approaches them, grumbling about their presence, but ultimately offers them his guidance and advice. The fledglings listen attentively, intrigued by his wisdom.

Scene 3: Building a New Nest

Willow takes charge and leads the fledglings in gathering materials to build a new nest in the remaining oak tree. Each fledgling contributes their unique skills, with Willow soothing and uniting them, Azure providing situational awareness, Melody mimicking the sounds of other birds, Spike offering his protection, and Ayana remaining calm and observant.

Scene 4: Azure's Discovery

Azure spots a large branch near the farmhouse that would be perfect for the new nest. He convinces Melody and Spike to join him on the risky mission of retrieving it. They cautiously navigate their way, avoiding the barn cat's pursuit.

Scene 5: Evading the Barn Cat

Azure, Melody, and Spike find themselves in a precarious situation as the barn cat tries to catch them. They use their quick thinking and teamwork to outwit the cat, creating moments of both tension and humor.

Scene 6: Nest-building Continues

Willow and Ayana work diligently to build the nest, using materials brought by Azure, Melody, and Spike. They face challenges but remain determined and focused, showcasing their complementary strengths.

Scene 7: Inaros' Growing Affection

Inaros watches the fledglings' bravery and resourcefulness as they successfully bring back the branch. He begins to warm up to them, seeing their potential and admiring their resilience.

Scene 8: Inaros' Guiding Words

Inaros imparts more wisdom to the fledglings, this time willingly and with a touch of care in his gruff demeanor. He teaches them survival techniques and encourages them to keep their spirits high amidst adversity.

Scene 9: Completing the New Nest

With the branch safely added to the nest, the fledglings rejoice in their accomplishment. Willow leads them in a celebratory song, symbolizing their unity and strength as a newfound family.

Scene 10: Sunset Reflections

The fledglings gather around Inaros as the sun sets, sharing their experiences and emotions. Inaros expresses pride in their progress and growing attachment to them, foreshadowing his emerging role as a mentor figure for the fledglings.

Scene 11: Nighttime Nest Huddle

The fledglings settle into their new nest for the night, finding comfort and security in their collective presence. Inaros keeps a watchful eye on them from his tree hole, silently observing their growing bond.

Scene 12: Epilogue - Preparing for the Journey

As the episode concludes, the fledglings reflect on the challenges they have overcome and the lessons they have learned. They eagerly anticipate their first migration and the adventures that lie ahead, now more prepared and united than ever before. Inaros offers a final word of encouragement, solidifying his role as their trusted mentor.

Step 4 - Prompt for a Scene's Beats

Based on what we've provided and the AI has generated so far, we now have an excellent set of scenes for the first episode.

With all the above, we can prompt for the beats of each scene. Let's see the results for Act 1 Scene 1.

Prompt

You are the showrunner in a TV writers' room.

Let's break a scene into beats.

I will give you

• show info
• episode info
• scene to break
• season arc
• precinct (location where the story takes place)
• character sketches
• episode's scenes by act
• output format

You give me the beats for the scene.

Output Format

Show: [show title]

Season [season #], Episode [the episode #]: [episode name]

Act [act #], Scene [scene #]: [scene name]

Beat [beat #]: [beat description]

AI Responses (Episode 1 - Beats of Each Scene)

Show: Lil Birbs

Season 1, Episode 1: Grounded

Act 1, Scene 1: Fledglings' Grounded Nest

Beat 1: After the storm, the camera pans across the wreckage to reveal the five fledglings - Willow, Azure, Melody, Spike, and Ayana - in a state of shock and mourning.

Beat 2: Willow, with her small size and outsized determination, lifts her head to the sky and chirps a poignant song, establishing her character as a communicator and emotional leader.

Beat 3: Azure, using his keen sense of situational awareness, starts surveying the wreckage around the tall oak tree. His gaze is alert and wary, showcasing his natural protective instinct.

Beat 4: Melody, amidst the sorrow, begins mimicking the song of other birds and even the howl of the wind, suggesting her quirky talent and resilience in the face of adversity.

Beat 5: Spike, the tough foster kid, takes stock of the situation, his stern demeanor hiding a sense of loss. He remains slightly detached from the group, foreshadowing his struggle for acceptance and camaraderie.

Beat 6: Ayana finds a small patch of sun amid the wreckage and stretches out her tiny wings, representing her calmness and patience in the midst of chaos.

Beat 7: The fledglings begin to communicate with each other, their bird-like chatter mixed with emotion, confusion, and determination. Their actions reveal their distinct personalities and the challenges they will face.

Beat 8: The fledglings make a collective decision to band together for survival, solidifying their newly formed family.

Beat 9: The fledglings look toward the future, aware of their situation, determined to survive, and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. Their determination sets the stage for the rest of the episode and the series.

Episode 1 Final Outline

After prompting for all the beats of all the scenes of an episode, we can distill the responses into a readable outline.

Act 1 Scene 1: Fledglings' Grounded Nest

• After the storm, the camera pans across the wreckage to reveal the five fledglings - Willow, Azure, Melody, Spike, and Ayana - in a state of shock and mourning.

• Willow, with her small size and outsized determination, lifts her head to the sky and chirps a poignant song, establishing her character as a communicator and emotional leader.

• Azure, using his keen sense of situational awareness, starts surveying the wreckage around the tall oak tree. His gaze is alert and wary, showcasing his natural protective instinct.

• Melody, amidst the sorrow, begins mimicking the song of other birds and even the howl of the wind, suggesting her quirky talent and resilience in the face of adversity.

• Spike, the tough foster kid, takes stock of the situation, his stern demeanor hiding a sense of loss. He remains slightly detached from the group, foreshadowing his struggle for acceptance and camaraderie.

• Ayana finds a small patch of sun amid the wreckage and stretches out her tiny wings, representing her calmness and patience in the midst of chaos.

• The fledglings begin to communicate with each other, their bird-like chatter mixed with emotion, confusion, and determination. Their actions reveal their distinct personalities and the challenges they will face.

• The fledglings make a collective decision to band together for survival, solidifying their newly formed family.

• The fledglings look toward the future, aware of their situation, determined to survive, and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. Their determination sets the stage for the rest of the episode and the series.

Act 1 Scene 2: Meeting Inaros

• Inaros, the wise old Owl, is introduced, peering down from his tree hole. He observes the fledglings' distress from afar, showing his initial reluctance to get involved.

• Inaros sighs and slowly descends from his tree hole, grumbling about the disturbances the fledglings are causing in his otherwise quiet home. He makes his way towards them, showing the audience that beneath his gruff exterior, he cares.

• The fledglings notice Inaros approaching. They become tense, unsure of his intentions, but his presence naturally commands their attention. This beat sets up the contrast between the helpless fledglings and the experienced, mature Owl.

• Inaros starts sharing his wisdom about survival and the world outside the oak tree, incorporating anecdotes from his past and a dose of humor. His grumbling tone belies the valuable guidance he is providing, showing the audience that he's tough but good-hearted.

• The fledglings listen to Inaros attentively, illustrating their desperation and the seriousness of their situation. Some are more captivated (like Willow and Ayana) than others (like Spike), setting up their unique relationships with Inaros for future storylines.

• Inaros concludes his talk, warning them about the dangers of the outside world but also offering a glimmer of hope that they can survive and thrive if they work together. He then retreats back to his tree hole, watching over them from a distance.

• The fledglings huddle together after Inaros leaves, beginning to process the wisdom they've received. They appear to be more determined and hopeful, showing the start of their development from innocent fledglings to independent young birds.

• The scene ends with a sweeping shot of the wreckage around them and the daunting world beyond, highlighting the long and challenging journey ahead, but with the newfound wisdom and potential allies, the fledglings are a step closer to survival.

Act 1 Scene 3: Building a New Nest

• Willow, demonstrating her leadership, encourages the group to build a new nest. She outlines the task, imparting a sense of urgency but also optimism. The other fledglings react with various levels of engagement and understanding, but all feel her optimism.

• Azure uses his sharp eye to survey the surrounding area. He identifies suitable branches and other materials. There is a sense of hope and purpose as he points out the resources they need.

• Melody provides ambient entertainment by mimicking the songs of various birds. She lightens the mood, distracting the group from their losses and providing a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.

• Spike, the outsider, throws himself into the task, picking up a nearby twig and placing it onto the designated nest area. It's a small act, but it signals his commitment to the group.

• Ayana, calm and observant, watches everything from a safe distance. She picks up on Willow's calming song, Azure's directives, Melody's distraction tactics, and Spike's sudden engagement.

• Inaros, watching from his tree hole, grumbles a little but observes the fledglings' efforts. He sees their unique skills, strengths, and potential. There is a hint of respect in his eyes.

• The fledglings, under Willow's leadership, begin to gather twigs, leaves, and other materials. The action is interspersed with their individual responses to the task – Willow's song, Azure's watchfulness, Melody's sound effects, Spike's determination, and Ayana's quiet observation.

• The fledglings end the scene with a visible structure for their new nest. Despite their losses and the harsh reality of their situation, they find a moment of shared triumph. There is a sense of a new beginning, of survival against the odds. Inaros, observing from a distance, allows himself a small approving nod.

Act 2 Scene 4: Azure's Discovery

• Azure spots the large branch from a distance. His keen eyes focus on it, revealing his ability for situational awareness.

• Azure reveals his discovery to Melody and Spike. His vocal strength comes into play as he tries to convince them about the importance of the branch for their new nest.

• Melody and Spike express initial hesitance. Melody is unsure about the risky nature of the venture, while Spike shows his typical tough exterior but still seems worried about the dangers they might face.

• Azure persuades them by painting a vivid picture of how secure and cozy their new nest will be with this branch. His leadership skills are beginning to emerge.

• They start their journey towards the farmhouse, carefully navigating their way through the debris. This shows their adaptability to new environments.

• They stop abruptly when they see the barn cat, who is not too far from the farmhouse. There's a moment of tension as they try to figure out how to proceed.

• Using Melody's mimicking talent, they devise a plan to distract the barn cat. Melody perfectly mimics the sound of a car horn, successfully diverting the barn cat's attention.

• While the cat is distracted, they make a quick dash towards the branch. This highlights their resourcefulness and ability to work as a team.

• As they near the branch, the barn cat realizes it has been tricked and starts pursuing them. This sets up the danger and excitement for the next scene.

• The scene ends with the trio reaching the branch and the barn cat not too far behind. It's a cliffhanger that leaves the viewers eager to know what will happen next.

Act 2 Scene 5: Evading the Barn Cat

• Azure, Melody, and Spike have successfully retrieved the large branch from the farmhouse, but they spot the barn cat stalking them from afar. A tense, dramatic score plays.

• Azure uses his sharp eyes to look for potential escape routes while Melody mimics a dog's bark, creating a diversion and confusing the barn cat.

• Despite the diversion, the cat begins to chase them. Spike, using his tough exterior, attempts to stand his ground and draw the cat away from Azure and Melody.

• As the cat nears, Spike dashes away in a different direction, leading the cat away from Azure and Melody who are carrying the branch. It's a tense, dangerous moment as Spike puts himself at risk.

• Azure and Melody use this window of opportunity to hurry back to the oak tree, but the branch is heavy, and they struggle. They fall, stumble, get back up, urging each other on in desperation.

• Meanwhile, Spike, through his smart evasion tactics, manages to escape from the barn cat, leaving it distracted and confused.

• Spike makes a beeline back to Azure and Melody, helping them carry the branch back to the oak tree, where Willow and Ayana are anxiously waiting. This triumphant moment is accentuated with uplifting background music.

• The barn cat returns to the barn, licking its paw and hatching plans for next time. This hints at an ongoing conflict with the barn cat in future episodes.

• Back at the oak tree, the fledglings breathe a sigh of relief. They share a moment of triumph and bonding, as they lay the large branch at the base of their new nest, their collective determination shining through.

• Inaros observes from his tree hole, witnessing the fledglings' courage and teamwork. His stern gaze softens, showing the beginnings of his growing affection for the fledglings.

Act 2 Scene 6: Nest-building Continues

• Willow and Ayana are arranging twigs, leaves, and other materials brought by Azure, Melody, and Spike, trying to shape them into a sturdy nest.

• Ayana spots a loose twig on the nest's edge. She patiently corrects it, demonstrating her calm and observational skills.

• Willow sings a soothing melody, cheering up Ayana when she struggles to fit a particularly stubborn leaf in place. Her song helps to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

• A gust of wind blows, rustling the under-construction nest and causing it to wobble dangerously. The fledglings anxiously watch it steady itself.

• Seeing the fledglings’ concern, Willow encourages them to continue building, using her wit and determination to lighten the mood.

• Ayana spots another bird in the distance, an adult mourning dove. She falls quiet, stretching her tiny wings in the sunlight and watching the other bird, reminding the group of their lost parents and their shared goal.

• The other fledglings return with more materials, creating a bit of a ruckus. Azure alerts them to be quiet, reminding them of the potential dangers around.

• Despite the moment of melancholy, the nest-building resumes with renewed vigor. Willow uses her natural leadership, Ayana her patience, and Azure his sharp eye to secure the construction against the wind.

• As the sun begins to set, the fledglings admire their nearly completed nest, a symbol of their collective resilience and teamwork. They find comfort in their shared accomplishment.

• The scene ends on a hopeful note, the fledglings gathered around their new home, preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. The camera pans out to reveal Inaros, observing from his tree hole, his wise gaze resting on the fledglings.

Act 3 Scene 7: Inaros' Growing Affection

• Inaros, perched in his tree hole, watches as Azure, Melody, and Spike emerge victorious from the dangerous mission, dragging the branch towards their nest.

• Inaros squints, showing his surprise and admiration, as he watches the young fledglings work together with newfound strength and unity to accomplish their mission.

• A moment of vulnerability from Inaros as he takes a slow, thoughtful look around the destroyed landscape, a silent recognition of the fledglings' bravery.

• Inaros softens his gaze, watching the fledglings begin to work with the branch, an internal shift from his initial gruff reluctance to a growing affection.

• An unexpected laugh rumbles from Inaros as Melody mimics the barn cat's yowl, easing the tension and hinting at Inaros' growing connection with the fledglings.

• Inaros withdraws slightly into the shadows of his tree hole, yet continues to observe the fledglings, showing his inner conflict about becoming more involved in their lives.

• Inaros nods with respect as he watches Willow lead the others with her sweet song, acknowledging her leadership and the strength of the fledgling group.

• Inaros' eyes glimmer in the moonlight as he looks out over the newly formed family, signifying his acceptance of his growing role as a mentor and protector for the fledglings.

Act 3 Scene 8: Inaros' Guiding Words

• Inaros watches the fledglings from his tree hole. His eyes soften, and he exhales a silent sigh of acceptance. The fledglings are not only surviving, they're becoming a family. He can't help but feel a growing attachment to them.

• Inaros descends from his tree hole, landing gently in the middle of the fledglings' makeshift nest. The fledglings look surprised but quickly gather around him, signaling their respect and eagerness to learn.

• Inaros begins to teach them various survival skills. He uses his claws and beak to demonstrate how to find food under the leaves and debris, and the fledglings mimic his movements, chirping and fumbling a little in their attempts.

• Inaros then begins to teach them about different predators and how to sense danger. He imitates the sounds of dangerous animals like the fox and barn cat, making the fledglings jump a little at first. But soon they're listening attentively and even trying to mimic these sounds back to him, especially Melody.

• Willow, in a show of leadership and courage, asks Inaros about flying. Inaros responds with a gruff chuckle, commenting that they are not quite ready yet. The fledglings look slightly disappointed, but they nod, trusting his judgment.

• Despite his gruff demeanor, Inaros offers some encouraging words, telling the fledglings that they have shown great resourcefulness and strength. He assures them that, in due time, they will be ready to fly.

• The fledglings' faces light up at Inaros' praise. They nuzzle up to him, chirping happily. Inaros looks surprised but doesn't pull away, allowing the fledglings to express their affection. His stern gaze softens for a moment, revealing a growing fondness for the little birds.

• Inaros, maintaining his composure, reminds them to stay strong and vigilant. He assures them that he will guide them, and they must trust his wisdom. He then takes off back to his tree hole, leaving the fledglings pondering his words, their small bodies glowing under the setting sun.

• As Inaros perches back in his tree hole, he watches the fledglings practice the new skills he taught them, their soft chirping filling the silent evening. He gives a nod of approval, content that he's done the right thing. It's a touching moment of kinship and warmth, setting the tone for the rest of the season.

• The scene ends with Inaros looking out over the wreckage-strewn field, his gaze thoughtful. The fledglings have survived the worst of the storm, but more challenges lie ahead. They will need all the wisdom he can offer, and he is ready to give it. As the sun dips below the horizon, the first episode of their journey together draws to a close.

Act 3 Scene 9: Completing the New Nest

• Azure, Melody, and Spike return to the fledglings' home base near the tall oak with the prized branch, huffing and puffing from their exertion and adrenaline. Willow and Ayana look up in surprise and rush to welcome them back.

• With excited chatters, they discuss the daring adventure, the barn cat, and the successful retrieval of the branch. Azure, Melody, and Spike recount their thrilling encounter, eliciting a mix of awe, laughter, and relief from their friends.

• They work together to incorporate the new branch into the nest, with Azure guiding and Ayana providing calming reassurance when the process gets a little tricky. It's a group effort requiring cooperation and patience.

• The fledglings step back to admire their work. The nest, now complete with the added branch, signifies their unity and collective efforts. There's a sense of shared accomplishment that strengthens their bond.

• Willow, recognizing the significance of this moment, breaks into a joyful song. The other fledglings join in, with Melody mimicking Willow's tune and Spike producing a gruff, off-key accompaniment. Their voices carry through the air, a testament to their spirit and resilience.

• The camera pans out to Inaros observing from his tree hole, a soft hoot of approval escaping his beak. The scene concludes with a sense of hope and anticipation for the fledglings' future. The once scattered and frightened birds have found their strength in unity and resilience, ready to face the adventures that await them.

Act 4, Scene 10: Sunset Reflections

• As the sun begins to set, casting long shadows across the field, the fledglings regroup near the oak tree. They are relieved but exhausted from their long day of nest-building and cat-dodging.

• Willow starts the conversation, thanking everyone for their hard work and bravery. She commends Azure's sharp eyes, Melody's mimicry skills that confused the barn cat, Spike's bravery, and Ayana's calm demeanor that kept everyone grounded.

• Azure acknowledges Willow's leadership, subtly reciprocating her praise. The fledglings start sharing their individual experiences and lessons from the day's adventures, reinforcing the notion that they've not only survived but grown stronger as a team.

• Inaros watches the fledglings from his tree hole, initially dismissive but slowly showing signs of approval. He interrupts their conversation with a gruff compliment, surprising the fledglings with his unexpected praise.

• Melody, inspired by Inaros' unexpected compliment, mimics the old owl's voice to add some humor to the conversation. This brings laughter and lightness, easing the tension and fostering camaraderie among the group.

• Taking a serious turn, Ayana expresses her feelings of missing their parents, leading to a moment of shared mourning and understanding. This helps deepen their bond and empathy for each other, emphasizing their shared predicament.

• Spike, usually gruff, reassures Ayana in his own unique way, showcasing his hidden soft side and solidifying his protective role within the group.

• Inaros expresses his pride in the fledglings' progress, subtly revealing his growing attachment to them. His words hint at his emerging role as a mentor figure and suggest that he might have more to teach them.

• As the sun sets completely, Willow sings a soothing song that encapsulates their shared emotions - a mix of sorrow, pride, and hope. The others listen, absorbed and comforted by her song, symbolizing their unity and strength as a family.

• The scene concludes with the fledglings silently watching the last remnants of the sunset, reflecting on their shared journey and growth. The looming darkness indicates their continuing struggles, but their shared reflection and the safety of their new nest promise hope for the future.

Act 4, Scene 11: Nighttime Nest Huddle

• The night sky is filled with stars, providing the only light. The harsh wind howls, causing the remaining leaves on the tall oak to rustle.

• Each fledgling tucks their head under their wing in a protective manner, nestling closer to each other for warmth in the newly constructed nest.

• Azure opens his eye, looking around cautiously before finally tucking his head under his wing, feeling secure with his friends around.

• Inaros watches them from his tree hole, his eyes glowing in the darkness, symbolizing his vigilant nature and his newly assumed role of a protector.

• Close-up on Melody, who suddenly starts mimicking the owl hoot of Inaros in her sleep, creating a humorous note amidst the tension and suspense.

• Spike grumbles and shifts a bit, uncomfortable but making no move to distance himself from the huddled group, indicating his growing acceptance of this unconventional family.

• Ayana, under her wing, calmly observes the night sounds, the rustling leaves, and the wind. She gently stretches her tiny wings, absorbing the feel of the world around her.

• Willow, being the smallest, is safely surrounded and protected by the larger fledglings. Her soft trills of contentment become the comforting background music for the scene.

• The camera pulls back to show the lonely oak tree in the devastated landscape, standing tall and sturdy. The tiny nest with the fledglings is a symbol of hope and resilience amidst the chaotic wilderness.

• Inaros closes his eyes, satisfied with the safety of the fledglings, indicating his growing attachment to the little birds. His final hoot of the night resonates through the silence, solidifying his role as a protector.

• As the scene ends, the camera pulls back even further, showing the expansive night sky, filled with countless stars. It symbolizes the endless possibilities and the vast journey that awaits these little fledglings.

Act 4, Scene 12: Epilogue - Preparing for the Journey

• Inaros is seen in his tree hole, watching over the fledglings as dawn approaches. He appears pensive, his eyes flicking between the fledglings, the damaged forest, and the direction of the coming migration.

• Down on the ground, Willow and Azure are seen discussing their plans, with Willow singing sweetly and Azure answering in his strong, carrying voice. Their dynamic suggests an understanding and mutual respect that has developed between them.

• Cut to Melody and Spike, practicing their unique skills. Melody imitates the calls of distant birds, while Spike guards the entrance to their new nest, casting watchful eyes towards the direction of the barn.

• Ayana is found in a patch of morning sun, quietly observing her surroundings. Her peaceful demeanor adds a calming note to the otherwise bustling scene.

• The camera moves back to Inaros as he hoots softly, getting the attention of the fledglings. They gather around the base of his tree, looking up expectantly.

• Inaros begins to speak, his gruff voice filled with wisdom and encouragement. He recounts the ordeals they’ve overcome, acknowledging their strengths and applauding their unity.

• Each fledgling has a moment of reaction to Inaros's words. Willow and Azure look determined, Melody and Spike nod in agreement, and Ayana closes her eyes in silent acceptance.

• Inaros shifts his gaze towards the horizon, speaking of the impending migration. He instills a sense of anticipation and readiness in the fledglings, preparing them for the journey ahead.

• The scene concludes with the fledglings returning to their activities with renewed vigor, their attitudes reflecting their resolve. The sun continues to rise, casting a hopeful glow over their makeshift home as Inaros watches them, a silent figure of guidance and support.

• The camera pulls away, revealing the overall landscape - the damaged forest, the tall oak, the barn in the distance - and finally the sky, with the silhouettes of migrating birds. It's a poignant reminder of the journey the fledglings have ahead of them, but also the resilience they've shown in their preparation.

Conclusion

Though we only created several episodes worth down to the beat, we were convinced that by crafting a logical prompt flow that includes the relevant information you can get story-aware suggestions.

There will be problems managing continuity across scenes, episodes, and seasons, since the context window for the AI is quite small. That will probably get larger over time, allowing for more relevant background to be included in in each prompt.

All in all, we consider it a promising technology that will require careful strategy to create large undertakings like creating an engaging series.