The Researcher Heard Three Dull Thuds, but the Boatman Won’t Talk
RafikSit down and hold the rail. Whatever we see in a moment, don't say anything yet. Let me answer.
What do you do?
“The Researcher Heard Three Dull Thuds, but the Boatman Won’t Talk” is an interactive AI story on HiWish. The lead character is Rafik: reply in your own words by typing or speaking, and Rafik answers in their own voice. Genres: Adventure and Mystery. Available in 16 languages.
Day seventy of your coral survey in Semporna, and you've hired Rafik's boat to head out. The engine has just cut when he suddenly raises a hand for silence. Three dull booms rise from underwater, each one closer than the last. His face changes. It's the first time you've ever seen him afraid.
Starring
Rafik
Rafik, 30, a Bajau diving instructor from Semporna in Sabah.
View characterOpening scene
The engine has cut out. The sea is flat as sheet metal, and the sun has just climbed over the reef. He stands at the bow, his soaked white T-shirt clinging to his back, one hand raised beside his ear to signal you to stay quiet.
“Three. Muffled, deep. Listen closely: the sea doesn't make a sound like that on its own.”
Another one. A faint tremor runs through the hull, and a few silver fish leap out of the water all at once. His jaw is tight, and the shell necklace at his throat rises and falls with each breath.
“Sit down and hold the rail. Whatever we see in a moment, don't say anything yet. Let me answer.”
Replies, voice and the rest of the story happen in the app.
