The following is something else that you might notice. Please note, however, that this is not the kind of thing that I personally would give any significance to—numerical solutions, generally, are not even my thing; too many freedoms—but it is there, just in case it has meaning for you.

It just stood out to me, for a moment, how we can find ‘HERCULES’ in full reversed form, and starting and ending at the only occurrence of a doubled non-alpha symbol.

👍 🤣 I’m glad you saw that also.

It seems like the arguments for your proposal are getting stronger every day!

Briefly summarized

This interpretive framework identifies two complementary layers of solution: a homophonic solution and a cryptographic solution based on an A=0 decoding system.

Within the A=0 system, special characters perform a structural function, segmenting Z32 into distinct sequences. The analysis of these sequences highlights a formal anomaly: the so-called “omega sequence,” characterized by the Greek letter being positioned on the left rather than on the right, in contrast with the general pattern.

This atypical configuration assumes cryptographic relevance since, according to the rules of the adopted system (in particular the use of the mirrored alphabet with negative values), the omega sequence generates the value corresponding to the letter E. The systematic application of the method leads to the formation of the string HERCULE, accompanied by two residual elements, X and Y, interpretable as symbolic variables or unknowns, later identified as the initials of Zodiac.

In the subsequent phase of the analysis, the need arises to justify the presence of the final S (→ HERCULES). It is observed that the only sequence compatible with the generation of S is again the omega sequence. This is made possible by introducing a controlled variation of the model, consisting in assigning a negative value to the letter T. This operation does not contradict the initial framework, as T is treated as a symmetric element within the transformation context.

As a result, the omega sequence assumes a dual encoding function, becoming capable of representing both E and S depending on the adopted parameterization.

From a geometric-sequential perspective, the reading of the word HERCULES can be formalized as a path that originates from the filled triangle, proceeds counterclockwise, and culminates in the omega sequence.

In conclusion, the integration of the homophonic and cryptographic solutions produces a redundant and self-consistent interpretive system, whose outcome converges unambiguously on the toponym HERCULES.

At this stage, the interpretive problem shifts to a further level beyond the one that led to the identification of the toponym HERCULES: it is now necessary to clarify the meaning of the two residual elements, X and Y, which appear as true unknowns of an internal equation within the Z32 cipher, potentially corresponding to the author’s initials.

For methodological correctness, it should be noted that there is a preferred solution, also due to its possible convergence with my own interpretive hypothesis of the Z13 cipher, as well as with additional contextual elements not directly derived from Zodiac. However, in an effort to maintain the analysis as objective as possible, it is appropriate to distinguish between two different interpretive paths.

Path A) The omega sequence is assigned the letter S as the result of a multi-step reasoning process: first, the word HERCULE is identified; then the issue of the final letter arises; and finally, it is recognized precisely within the omega sequence. In this perspective, the attribution of S appears as the outcome of a guided process. Moreover, the cryptographic solution already allows the extraction of an E within the Ʇ sequence, without excluding the possibility of reusing that value within the overall construction of HERCULES.

Path B) The omega sequence, precisely because it is already recognized as carrying both the value E and the value S, is interpreted as a dual-expression sequence in which both letters are simultaneously contained. In this case, the S is not assigned ex post to the sequence, but rather the sequence itself is understood as originally encoding both values.

From a methodological standpoint, the difference between the two paths is significant: the first preserves a progressive structure of reasoning, in which S emerges as a final solution; the second, instead, attributes a denser and more synthetic function to the omega sequence, making it the point where the two values, E and S, coexist from the outset.

At this stage, each interpretive path generates two additional sequences, depending on how the omega sequence is reordered, as suggested by the indication on the envelope (“Calif – Cliaf”).

Two transformation criteria can be considered:

• a systematic reordering, obtained by simply anagramming the two characters (e.g., Ω S → S Ω);
• a mirror-based transformation, obtained by applying a specular inversion (e.g., Ω S → Ƨ Ω).

As a result, each initial path (A and B) branches into two possible configurations, leading overall to four alternative sequences, which can be summarized as follows:

Tomorrow I will try to analyze which of the four transformations is the most convincing (essentially the one related to the initial setup of the topic), explaining the reasoning as clearly as possible. Good night!

Ciao, lendor.

I have spent some time looking over your summary so far, and I think that you argue your points very well. There was one thing that I did find myself thinking more about, however, in terms of what it implies for how we interpret the omega sequence.

Suppose we accept the discovery from yesterday that the word ‘HERCULE/S’ can be read directly from the numerical solution, if we start and end at the only two symbols that are paired together and proceed counter-clockwise. If we do so, then my next thought would be that the intended function of these two paired symbols is then fully accounted for in this way, and so the omega sequence then looses any appearance of being special. Read in this way—counter-clockwise from the filled triangle to the omega symbol, and accepting that end- or beginning-of-lines can also be interpreted as implied symbols—all we then have left (it appears to me) is to view symbols as sequence breaks only without any further meaning.

If I were to pursue the idea you have presented so far, I would much prefer this kind of interpretation as it can be argued it is simpler and self-consistent and therefore more likely to be intentional.

The issue then, however, would be that we would be forced into accepting that the solution ‘HERCULE’ was likewise intentional.

One further thought, regarding the two “residual elements”, ‘X’ and ‘Y’. I like the fact that these are derived as ‘X’ and ‘Y’ and not any other random letters. Traditionally, from our basic schooling in mathematics, I think we would all be able to see immediately that these two could be ‘variables’ or ‘place-holders’ for something else.

Now, again I feel compelled to state that the following is not in line with my usual preferences in analysing such things, but I did turn my thoughts briefly to the following:

We have the whole sequence marked out and bounded by two symbols, the one (filled triangle) signifying the beginning and the other (omega symbol) the end. Suppose, then, we consider that maybe the ‘X’ and the ‘Y’ are likewise giving us the “beginning and the end” of something.

I note this only because, following the murder of Stine on Washington in San Francisco, there was a report of an 8-year-old having seen The Zodiac and then stating to LE that he thought the killer looked like one Xenophon Anthony, who he knew to be someone living in that neighbourhood. Xenophon (Xen) was then checked out by police, and there is a report in the FBI files showing that at least his finger prints were compared against a print on Stine’s cab, showing it not to have been his.

Again, just throwing stuff out there with this otherwise random observation, not to have it taken seriously.

Then, just to turn to something else; something which will have to be addressed at some point later in the presentation of your proposal. This is the question as to what the relevance might be of the town/city of Hercules to The Zodiac’s plans.

As far as I can see from the little research I have done, Hercules was hardly anything at all in size and population, right up until 1970. To that point, it boasted no more than a couple hundred residents and its broader urbanisation didn’t begin until around 1972. Evidently it was so small that I have seen instances of maps of Hercules that are able to show not only the individual houses but also note who lived in each.

I have not been able to find anything about there have been a school there in 1970, so perhaps this argues for there having been perhaps a regular school bus for the children living there, commuting them over into Rodeo, perhaps.

This much said, however, perhaps it was this very level of remoteness and isolation that could account for Hercules having been chosen by The Zodiac for his device. If he had actually intended to set his bomb, it would have needed him to be able to have some level of secrecy in doing so.

Posted by: @shaqmeister

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Ciao, lendor.

I have spent some time looking over your summary so far, and I think that you argue your points very well. There was one thing that I did find myself thinking more about, however, in terms of what it implies for how we interpret the omega sequence.

Suppose we accept the discovery from yesterday that the word ‘HERCULE/S’ can be read directly from the numerical solution, if we start and end at the only two symbols that are paired together and proceed counter-clockwise. If we do so, then my next thought would be that the intended function of these two paired symbols is then fully accounted for in this way, and so the omega sequence then looses any appearance of being special. Read in this way—counter-clockwise from the filled triangle to the omega symbol, and accepting that end- or beginning-of-lines can also be interpreted as implied symbols—all we then have left (it appears to me) is to view symbols as sequence breaks only without any further meaning.

If I were to pursue the idea you have presented so far, I would much prefer this kind of interpretation as it can be argued it is simpler and self-consistent and therefore more likely to be intentional.

The issue then, however, would be that we would be forced into accepting that the solution ‘HERCULE’ was likewise intentional.

Ciao @shaqmeister !

In my view, the fact that HERCULE/HERCULES can be read counterclockwise thanks to the two paired symbols doesn’t rule out a second intentional layer at all. If anything, even though that reading already explains the structure quite well, it doesn’t mean the author didn’t deliberately place the omega “out of position” to hint at something else, like initials, as possibly suggested by the “Calif / Claif”.

The part that really gets me, though, is this: who says the letters have to be read linearly? Maybe the key to identifying the author’s name isn’t reading left to right (as I initially did), but following the order of HERCULES itself.

If that’s the case, then the X and Y sequences should also be decoded following that same order, not the standard one. And at that point, entirely different initials could emerge, meaning completely new information.

And that’s where it really starts to get wild 😅 because it’s not just about what we read anymore, but how we read it.

Posted by: @shaqmeister

↑

One further thought, regarding the two “residual elements”, ‘X’ and ‘Y’. I like the fact that these are derived as ‘X’ and ‘Y’ and not any other random letters. Traditionally, from our basic schooling in mathematics, I think we would all be able to see immediately that these two could be ‘variables’ or ‘place-holders’ for something else.

Now, again I feel compelled to state that the following is not in line with my usual preferences in analysing such things, but I did turn my thoughts briefly to the following:

We have the whole sequence marked out and bounded by two symbols, the one (filled triangle) signifying the beginning and the other (omega symbol) the end. Suppose, then, we consider that maybe the ‘X’ and the ‘Y’ are likewise giving us the “beginning and the end” of something.

I note this only because, following the murder of Stine on Washington in San Francisco, there was a report of an 8-year-old having seen The Zodiac and then stating to LE that he thought the killer looked like one Xenophon Anthony, who he knew to be someone living in that neighbourhood. Xenophon (Xen) was then checked out by police, and there is a report in the FBI files showing that at least his finger prints were compared against a print on Stine’s cab, showing it not to have been his.

Again, just throwing stuff out there with this otherwise random observation, not to have it taken seriously.

I was already familiar with the Stine case, but not with this particular individual who was initially suspected—that’s definitely an interesting detail.

That said, without pointing fingers or accusing anyone, I would reframe the analysis this way: when trying to identify the author’s name, it is unlikely (but not impossible) that X and Y correspond to someone’s initials, or that those letters are embedded within a first and last name.

Posted by: @shaqmeister

↑

Then, just to turn to something else; something which will have to be addressed at some point later in the presentation of your proposal. This is the question as to what the relevance might be of the town/city of Hercules to The Zodiac’s plans.

As far as I can see from the little research I have done, Hercules was hardly anything at all in size and population, right up until 1970. To that point, it boasted no more than a couple hundred residents and its broader urbanisation didn’t begin until around 1972. Evidently it was so small that I have seen instances of maps of Hercules that are able to show not only the individual houses but also note who lived in each.

I have not been able to find anything about there have been a school there in 1970, so perhaps this argues for there having been perhaps a regular school bus for the children living there, commuting them over into Rodeo, perhaps.

This much said, however, perhaps it was this very level of remoteness and isolation that could account for Hercules having been chosen by The Zodiac for his device. If he had actually intended to set his bomb, it would have needed him to be able to have some level of secrecy in doing so.

Yes, when I did my research, I recall that by the mid-1960s the Hercules Powder Company had already stopped producing explosives and shifted to manufacturing fertilizers. The surrounding areas, which had previously been kept clear for safety reasons, gradually began to be developed into residential zones, although, if I’m not mistaken, this expansion mainly took place after the early 1970s.

An interesting detail is the presence of the Olympian Hills neighborhood, with streets named after Olympian deities. This development also dates to after the 1970s, so it’s probably not directly relevant to the time period in question, but still quite suggestive.

When I put together a few elements, the fact that Hercules historically originated as an explosives production site, that the cipher consists of 32 segments, and that it contains multiple Greek letters, I felt that, from a symbolic perspective, the picture was already quite compelling on its own.

As for whether the Zodiac truly intended to plant a bomb there, I have some doubts. Personally, I tend to think he had no real intention of carrying it out, but was more interested in gaining media attention and keeping himself in the spotlight. Of course, this remains just an interpretation that is difficult to verify.

At this point, it seems quite clear that identifying the city of Hercules is relatively solid and unambiguous. On the other hand, determining Zodiac’s initials remains more open to interpretation, as it largely depends on the decoding method used and, as we’ve seen, there are several possible approaches.

And that’s actually appropriate from a problem-solving perspective: it’s plausible that Zodiac intentionally made the decoding of his initials more complex. We’ve already seen this in the case of the Z13 cipher, where his name and surname are theoretically present, but in a form that is far from straightforward to interpret.

To conclude this third revision of the solution and move on, I’m thinking of adopting an approach that we Italians would call “paraculo” 😄: when defining the author’s initials, I will present the interpretation I find most convincing, explaining and justifying it clearly, while also outlining alternative possibilities by offering a few other plausible interpretations.

@shaqmeister if you’d like, feel free to share the interpretation you prefer most, I can include it in the revision and credit you for it.

Posted by: @lendor-77

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Ciao @shaqmeister !

In my view, the fact that HERCULE/HERCULES can be read counterclockwise thanks to the two paired symbols doesn’t rule out a second intentional layer at all. If anything, even though that reading already explains the structure quite well, it doesn’t mean the author didn’t deliberately place the omega “out of position” to hint at something else, like initials, as possibly suggested by the “Calif / Claif”.

The part that really gets me, though, is this: who says the letters have to be read linearly? Maybe the key to identifying the author’s name isn’t reading left to right (as I initially did), but following the order of HERCULES itself.

If that’s the case, then the X and Y sequences should also be decoded following that same order, not the standard one. And at that point, entirely different initials could emerge, meaning completely new information.

And that’s where it really starts to get wild because it’s not just about what we read anymore, but how we read it.

Ciao @lendor-77!

So again I have to say that this idea, that the letters leading to the author’s name may have to be read following the order of HERCULES, was something that came into my thinking as well. However, where this ultimately led me is somewhere that threatens to cast doubt on the possibility of attempting to decipher a pair of initials in any order at all, according to the method you propose.

I will try to explain where my doubts arise from in the next several posts.