Protomolecule

Story so far

The protomolecule was designed by a vanished civilization as a bridge builder, scattered among the stars to seize organic life and construct ring gates into the Slow Zone. Its makers died, but their network of more than a thousand worlds remains. On Laconia, the molecule's modular compatibility with other alien systems makes it an imperfect but invaluable control interface.

Paolo Cortazár cultivates it in condemned humans and animals inside The Pen, drains their infected tissues, and uses the resulting material throughout Laconia's great works. It weaves carbon into structures lighter than carbon fiber and stronger than graphene, though it bonds dangerously to skin. Its modified human stem cells are also growing new organs in Winston Duarte, closing wounds instantly and apparently removing his need for sleep.

Appearance

A tiny, information-rich alien particle that reorganizes available matter; under controlled conditions it unfolds carbon into intricate interwoven lattices and transforms infected flesh through a hemorrhagic, bone-growing progression.

Role

The protomolecule is Laconia's bridge between human engineering and the incomprehensible machinery left by the gate builders.

Relationships

Earlier in this series

Also appears in books you've already read — spoiler-safe to their endings:

• Leviathan WakesBook 1
• Abaddon's GateBook 3
• Nemesis GamesBook 5