Lucas “Luke” Callahan
Born to a renowned geologist specializing in stratigraphy, Luke was immersed in the world of earth sciences from a young age. Luke’s mother died from an aneurysm when Luke was born.
His father’s passion for uncovering Earth’s past histories through archaeological excavations deeply influenced Luke. These experiences fostered a sense of adventure and a profound respect for historical knowledge and the Earth’s geological processes.
Luke’s fascination with the Earth’s layers and history led him to pursue a degree in Geology, with a focus on Stratigraphy, at MIT.
His academic career was marked by excellence and a deep commitment to understanding the complexities of Earth’s geological strata.
He participated in various field studies and research projects during his time at MIT, further honing his skills and knowledge.
Luke is depicted as idealistic, driven by a desire to unravel the mysteries of the Earth much like his father.
His curious nature is complemented by a methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving, traits essential in a geologist.
Despite his young age, Luke possesses a maturity shaped by his unique childhood experiences, giving him a balanced perspective on both scientific inquiry and its ethical implications.
As a recent graduate, Luke is eager to make his mark in the field of geology. He is particularly interested in applying his knowledge of stratigraphy to uncover new insights about Earth’s past.
He aspires to contribute to important geological discoveries, possibly exploring aspects of Earth’s history that have remained elusive or misunderstood.
Luke’s father’s legacy plays a significant role in his career choice and aspirations. He aims to continue his father’s work, not only in a scientific capacity but also in fostering a deeper public appreciation of geology.
The loss of his father has left a profound impact, motivating Luke to pursue his dreams with even greater zeal, hoping to honor his father’s memory.
Luke’s expertise in stratigraphy enables him to read the Earth’s layers like a history book, interpreting the story of our planet’s past.
His technical skills are complemented by a strong understanding of archaeological methods, thanks to the numerous digs he participated in during his childhood.
Luke values the relationships he forms, whether in academic circles or in the field. His ability to connect with people from various backgrounds stems from his early exposure to diverse cultures and disciplines during his father’s excavations.
He often reflects on his experiences and lessons learned from his father, which guide him in both personal and professional endeavors.
Luke’s Father
Dr. Michael Callahan, PhD
Dr. Michael Callahan was a respected, albeit unconventional, figure in the field of geology and stratigraphy. His work focused on exploring and understanding the Earth’s stratigraphic layers to unearth secrets of ancient civilizations.
He often ventured into uncharted territories, both literally and figuratively, with his bold hypotheses about the connections between geological formations and human history.
Charismatic and passionate, Dr. Callahan was known for his captivating lectures and engaging storytelling, making complex geological concepts accessible and fascinating to a broad audience.
His approach to geology was holistic, often integrating aspects of archaeology, anthropology, and history to build his scientific theories.
Dr. Callahan proposed several groundbreaking scientific theories that linked significant geological events to the evolution and migration patterns of ancient civilizations.
Although these scientific theories were often considered fringe by mainstream academia, they were built on a foundation of meticulous research and a significant body of evidence.
A significant part of Dr. Callahan’s career was spent in the field, leading archaeological excavations, and geological surveys across various continents.
These expeditions were not only scientific endeavors but also deeply personal quests for knowledge, which he shared with his son, Luke.
Dr. Callahan was more than just a father to Luke; he was a mentor and an inspiration. His passion for uncovering the mysteries of the Earth was infectious, deeply influencing Luke’s career path.
He involved Luke in many of his field trips, imparting practical knowledge and instilling in him a profound respect for the discipline.
Tragically, Dr. Callahan’s life was cut short in a field accident.
This untimely death left a void in the scientific community and created a personal mission for Luke to validate and continue his father’s pioneering work.
Despite his death, Dr. Callahan’s scientific theories and work continued to influence the field, with many peers and students revisiting his research in light of new discoveries.
His legacy lives on through Luke, who carries both the burden and honor of proving his father’s scientific theories and bringing them to the forefront of modern geological thought.
Luke’s Father’s Friends
The Geologists’ Circle:
This group comprises retired or near-retirement geologists who were contemporaries of Luke’s father, Dr. Michael Callahan. They are revered figures in the geology community, known for their significant contributions to the field.
Their careers spanned a transformative era in geology, witnessing and contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements.
Each member brings a unique specialty to the group, such as paleogeology, mineralogy, seismology, or environmental geology, reflecting the diversity of the field.
They are known for their pivotal research, publications, and roles in shaping modern geological practices.
These seasoned geologists serve as mentors and guides to Luke, providing invaluable insights drawn from decades of experience.
They offer Luke a blend of technical expertise, ethical guidance, and historical context, helping him navigate the complex world of geology and archaeology.
Nick, distinct from the academics in the group, is a businessman with a keen interest in geology. He was a close friend and financial supporter of Dr. Callahan’s work.
His financial acumen and willingness to invest in Dr. Callahan’s unconventional projects were crucial to their realization.
Having witnessed the impact of irresponsible practices and environmental degradation, the group is deeply skeptical of the misuse of technology and advocates for sustainable and ethical exploration.
Their perspective is crucial in the story, often serving as a cautionary voice against reckless exploitation of newly discovered ancient technologies or knowledge.
They symbolize the bridge between the old guard and the new generation of geologists, offering continuity and a wealth of knowledge.
Their interactions with Luke and other younger characters highlight the evolution of scientific thought and the importance of learning from the past.
Nick
Nicholas “Nick” Alexander Bennett
A successful entrepreneur with a deep interest in earth sciences, Nick made his fortune in technology but was always fascinated by Geology.
Nick and Luke’s father met in college and formed a lifelong friendship. Nick admired Luke’s father’s dedication to science and was keen on supporting research that could make a difference.
Nick financed all of Luke’s father’s projects, believing in the potential of scientific discovery. His financial backing often made ambitious and otherwise impossible projects feasible.
Nick remains a respected figure in the scientific community, known for his philanthropy and support of research endeavors.
Mary
Mary Elizabeth Wentworth
Mary’s life was marked by tragedy at a young age when she lost her parents in a ski accident. This early loss brought a maturity and depth to her, shaping her into a person of substance and resilience. Raised by her Uncle Thomas, a figure of wealth and influence, Mary grew up in an environment that valued education and enterprise.
Uncle Thomas, recognizing Mary’s potential, ensured she received the best education. Mary attended Harvard, where her passion for health and nutrition blossomed. She was not only academically gifted but also socially adept, balancing her rigorous studies with a healthy social life, which helped her develop a well-rounded personality.
Her interest in health led her to pursue a degree in Health and Nutrition, and she furthered her practical skills by obtaining a registered nursing degree. Her education equipped her with a deep understanding of the human body and the importance of nutrition, which became central to her career.
Mary’s experiences fostered a deep compassion for others, often volunteering at local clinics and community centers during her time at Harvard.
Under the guidance of her Uncle Thomas, Mary developed a keen business sense, and her time managing the freeze-dried food company honed her leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
Mary, in her professional capacity, has carved a niche in the production of freeze-dried food. Her expertise in this area is not just limited to the general public market but extends to a more specialized clientele space agencies around the world. Her products are sought after for their quality and suitability for space missions, making them a staple for astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
This line of work requires a blend of culinary skill, scientific understanding, and innovative thinking. Mary’s freeze-dried food is designed to meet the unique challenges of space travel, including long shelf life, nutritional value, and ease of preparation in zero-gravity environments. Her involvement in this field is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and her contribution to space exploration.
Mary’s personal tragedy instilled in her the importance of health, leading her to become a health food enthusiast and a regular exerciser, embodying the principles she studied.
Despite her upbringing in luxury, Mary is not afraid to embrace the outdoors, enjoying activities like jogging on mountain trails, which is where her path crosses with Luke’s.
Mary’s knowledge in health and nutrition is extensive, allowing her to make informed decisions about food sustainability and health practices in survival situations.
Her nursing degree is not just a qualification; it’s a practical skill set that proves invaluable in the field, especially in remote and hazardous expeditions.
Mary has a sharp mind for business, revitalizing a failing company and steering it towards success, a testament to her analytical skills and leadership.
Mary’s journey involves channeling her personal loss into a drive to help others, finding solace in making a difference in the world.
Her chance encounter with Luke leads to a deep, meaningful connection, rooted in shared interests and mutual respect, which grows into a loving partnership.
As Mary becomes involved with Luke’s work, her background in health and nutrition, combined with her nursing skills, becomes crucial in supporting the team’s well-being, bridging her past to her present endeavors.
Mary Elizabeth Wentworth is a character of layers, embodying both the grace of her upbringing and the grit of her personal convictions. Her background in health and business, coupled with her personal losses, create a compelling narrative of a woman who is as comfortable in a boardroom as she is on a mountain trail. Her relationship with Luke adds a dimension of romance to the adventure and survival elements of the story, grounding the expansive science fiction tale in the personal growth and unity of its characters.
Mary’s Uncle Thomas
Thomas Harrington Wentworth
Born into a family with a substantial legacy in industrial and technological advancements, Thomas was exposed to business and innovation from an early age. Despite the wealth, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and self-made success.
Thomas attended prestigious schools, eventually graduating from an Ivy League university with a degree in Business Administration and Finance.
He started his career in his family’s business but soon ventured out to establish his enterprises, showcasing a keen eye for emerging markets and technology.
Thomas has a portfolio of successful ventures, ranging from technology startups to renewable energy projects. His investments are known for being ahead of the curve, often in sectors that are on the brink of booming.
He is also known for his strategic wealth management, growing his family wealth manifold through savvy investments and partnerships.
Thomas is known for his sharp intellect, charisma, and a no-nonsense approach to business. Despite his wealth, he maintains a relatively modest lifestyle.
He is deeply involved in philanthropy, with a focus on education, environmental conservation, and scientific research, believing in giving back to society and fostering innovation.
After the tragic passing of Mary’s parents, Thomas took on the role of her guardian. He ensured that Mary received the best education and opportunities, encouraging her to pursue her interests.
Beyond just being a guardian, he served as a mentor to Mary, instilling in her the values of hard work, integrity, and the importance of making a positive impact in the world.
Thomas’s decision to invest in the struggling freeze-dried food business and place it under Mary’s supervision was a strategic move to cultivate her business acumen and independence.
Joseph
Joseph Alexander Sterling
Joseph Sterling was born into a family of academics, his mother, a historian, and his father, a professor of anthropology. This environment fostered his love for languages and ancient cultures from a young age.
He attended Yale University, where he was recognized as a prodigy in the field of linguistics. His passion for dead languages and undeciphered scripts set him apart from his peers.
After completing his doctorate, Joseph embarked on numerous field trips, collaborating with archaeologists and historians, deciphering ancient texts, and occasionally stumbling upon languages that had been lost to time.
Joseph’s mannerisms and habits are considered unconventional, often engrossed in his work to the point of obliviousness to his surroundings. Yet, this eccentricity is also what makes him a genius in his field.
Despite the seriousness of his profession, he has a sharp wit and enjoys lightening tense moments with his dry humor, often using linguistic puns that only he fully appreciates.
He may provide comic relief, but Joseph is deeply ethical and often contemplates the implications of the team’s work, ensuring that their discoveries are respected and handled with care.
Joseph possesses an extraordinary ability to understand and interpret ancient texts, sometimes creating links between seemingly unrelated languages.
His skill set is not just limited to known languages; he is adept at cracking codes and ciphers, which is invaluable in deciphering the ancient inscriptions.
He is also a gifted educator, able to explain complex linguistic concepts in a way that is accessible to those outside his field.
The discovery of the ancient texts puts Joseph’s skills to the ultimate test, challenging his knowledge and beliefs about the history of language and human civilization.
His partnership with Simon, the psychologist, provides a narrative of intellectual camaraderie as they attempt to understand the mindset and context of the ancient civilization.
As he deciphers the language and its implications, Joseph grapples with the enormity of their discovery, balancing his scientific excitement with the responsibility it entails.
Joseph Alexander Sterling is not just the mind that decodes the past but also the heart that ensures its legacy is preserved. His journey from a scholarly recluse to a key player in one of humanity’s greatest discoveries is marked by his personal growth, as he learns to collaborate and form connections with his team, paralleling the ancient connections he uncovers through his work.
Simon
Simon Alexander Thornton
Simon grew up in a small coastal town in New England, showing an early interest in human behavior and the mysteries of the mind.
He was an exceptional student, particularly drawn to psychology and anthropology in high school.
Simon attended Yale University, where he majored in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology, driven by his fascination with the intersection of culture and individual psychology.
He earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University. His dissertation focused on “The Psychological Impact of Ancient Beliefs on Modern Society,” blending his interests in ancient cultures and contemporary human behavior.
Simon became a professor of Psychology at a prestigious university, where he gained a reputation for his engaging teaching style and insightful research. He published several papers on cultural psychology and the evolution of human thought.
Simon is introspective, compassionate, and has an innate ability to understand and empathize with others. He’s also known for his calm demeanor, which helps him navigate the high-stress situations the team encounters.
Apart from his expertise in psychology, Simon has a knack for languages and has studied several ancient and modern languages, aiding in his collaboration with Joseph, the linguist.
In his free time, Simon enjoys religion, meditation, hiking, and writing poetry, often finding inspiration in nature for his work.
Simon joins the team to provide psychological insights into the ancient civilization’s societal structure and beliefs, and to help manage the team dynamics in high-stress environments.
His work with Joseph becomes pivotal as they try to understand the psychological underpinnings of the ancient language and texts, offering a unique perspective that combines linguistic and psychological analysis.
Simon often finds himself as the moral compass of the team, reminding others of the ethical implications of their discoveries and the need to respect the ancient civilization they’re studying.
Simon’s character adds depth to the narrative, bridging the gap between the hard sciences and the humanistic elements of the story. His background in psychology not only aids in understanding the ancient civilization but also in navigating the complex relationships and challenges the team faces in their journey.
Ava Kurosawa
Investigative Journalist
A former data analyst turned journalist, Ava is known for her analytical mind and ability to uncover hidden truths through complex data patterns.
Tenacious, deeply ethical, and somewhat introverted. She believes strongly in the power of information to enact change.
Ava constantly balances her quest for truth with the personal risks that come with delving into the darkest secrets.
30 Minutes
“30 Minutes” specializes in investigative journalism. It’s known for its incisive reporting on political corruption and corporate malfeasance.
“30 Minutes” brings its audience into the heart of the story.
Founded 50 years ago, “30 Minutes” began as a small, independent news outlet aiming to bring transparency to the expanding frontier of human civilization.
Over time, it has grown into a respected institution, adapting to changes in technology and politics, often being the first to adopt and implement new forms of media dissemination.
Widely respected for its integrity, “30 Minutes” is also seen as a thorn in the side of powerful entities. It’s known for not shying away from controversial stories.
Its reporting has been pivotal in shaping public opinion, influencing policies and bringing about significant social changes.
Based in a sleek, high-rise building in New Geneva, a city known for its blend of cultures.
Jaxon Rhee, a charismatic and seasoned journalist known for his insightful interviews and a knack for getting to the truth.
A diverse team including Lina Santos, an expert in corporate espionage stories, and Dex Harlow, a former military analyst now covering politics.
Maya Chen, a visionary producer who has been with “30 Minutes” since its inception, and Ravi Mehta, a young, tech-savvy director who pushes the boundaries of immersive journalism.
Jaxon is driven by the pursuit of truth, Lina by a desire to expose injustice, and Dex by a need to understand and explain complex political dynamics.
There’s a mentor-mentee relationship between Maya and Ravi, and a friendly rivalry between Jaxon and Lina, pushing each other to be better.
The team often grapples with the morality of exposing secrets that could destabilize societies or put lives at risk.
Balancing their personal lives with the demands and dangers of their profession is a constant struggle.
Characters evolve as they confront personal and professional challenges, learning about themselves and the impact of their work.
Advanced technology aids their investigations but also presents new challenges in verifying the authenticity of information in a digital age.
Earl and Elizabeth Whitlock
Earl Ph.D. Astrophysicist Elizabet Ph.D. Cryptanalyst
Earl and Elizabeth Whitlock are a couple who’ve recently become part of the Pangaea community due to Earl’s involvement in the Pangaea Project. Earl, known for his exceptional intellect and significant contributions to various space missions and telescopic projects, possesses an IQ over 200. He’s worked on the Hubble and James Webb telescopes and has lent his expertise to the development of experimental spacecraft for missions to Mars and the moon.
Elizabeth, on the other hand, is not just Earl’s partner in life but also his intellectual companion. Before her retirement, she was deeply involved in assisting Earl with complex scientific problems, showcasing her own formidable understanding and acumen. Together, they make a formidable team, both professionally and personally. Now, with Elizabeth focusing on their children and home life, she provides the stable backdrop for Earl’s continued explorations and contributions to the Pangaea Project.
As new residents of Pangaea, Earl and Elizabeth quickly integrate into the community, forming bonds and friendships, particularly with Luke and Mary, who share similar experiences of balancing demanding work with family life. Elizabeth’s agreement to help Earl with his work on the Pangaea Boulder indicates not only her intellectual capability but also her dedication to supporting her husband’s passion. At the same time, Mary’s offer to watch over their children reflects the close-knit, supportive nature of the Pangaea community.