> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.meridian.surf/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Ask AI

> Send a prompt to an AI model using your own API key.

Ask AI sends a prompt to a supported model using **your own API key** (BYOK). Meridian does not bill for BYOK usage.

## What it does

Runs chat or image models from providers you configure. The model reply and model id can be saved to temporary flow variables for follow-up blocks.

## Configuration

Open the block in the builder sidebar to configure these fields.

### `api_key_env`

**Type:** `string`. Required.

Raw key or Storage variable name (recommended).

### `model`

**Type:** `string`. Required.

Pick from the list or pass a dynamic id via variable.

### `system_prompt`

**Type:** `string`.

Instructions that shape tone and behavior.

### `prompt`

**Type:** `string`. Required.

User message sent to the model. Variables allowed.

### `max_tokens`

**Type:** `number`.

Response length cap (1 to 8192).

### `temperature`

**Type:** `number`.

Optional creativity from 0 (focused) to 2 (varied).

### `save_response`

**Type:** `string`.

Temporary variable for text reply (`{vars.name}`) and model id (`{name.model}`).

## Tips

* Combine with Send a Message to post AI replies in Discord channels.

## Important

* Gemini image models return JSON with base64 image data. Parse the JSON in later blocks if you need bytes.

## See also

* [API & Third Party](/builder/action-blocks/api-and-third-party) — Browse all blocks in the API & Third Party category.