Very Short Summary
Thirty years after the formation of the Transport Union, humanity had spread across thousands of worlds through alien ring gates. On the isolated colony of Laconia, scientists worked with the protomolecule to develop advanced technology while their leader, Winston Duarte, underwent experimental treatments.
When Laconia suddenly reopened its gate, they launched an invasion of the solar system with vastly superior technology. The Transport Union, led by Drummer, attempted to resist but was overwhelmed by Laconian forces.
The Laconians appointed Singh as governor of Medina Station, while Holden and his crew joined the resistance. During a mission to gather intelligence, Holden was captured. When interrogated, he confronted Singh with a stark truth about the protomolecule builders.
Whatever built the gates and the protomolecule and all these ruins we're living in? They were wiped out. And the thing that wiped them out just took a shot at you. Your empire's hands look a lot cleaner when you dictate where history begins.
The resistance managed to capture a Laconian destroyer, but their victory was overshadowed by Laconia's complete conquest of the solar system. Singh was removed from power for failing to maintain control, while Drummer was forced to publicly legitimize Laconian rule. The story ended with Duarte planning to meet with the captured Holden to discuss humanity's future and the protomolecule's implications.
Detailed Summary
Division into sections is editorial.
The Rise of Laconia and Cortázar's Research
On Laconia, scientist Paolo Cortázar conducted groundbreaking research on the protomolecule, developing new technologies under the direction of Winston Duarte. The High Consul himself underwent experimental protomolecule treatments that began to change him in unexpected ways.
The sad fact of the human species that High Consul Duarte understood so well was that you could never overcome tribalism and jingoism with an argument. Only with a show of overwhelming force.
The Transport Union and the Rocinante's Mission
Camina Drummer, as President of the Transport Union, oversaw the opening of TSL-5 and dealt with unauthorized ship transits. She faced the challenge of maintaining order across human-colonized space while managing the complex politics of interplanetary relations.
The crew of the Rocinante, led by James Holden, embarked on a mission to Freehold to address an unauthorized ship transit. During the mission, they confronted Governor Houston and successfully negotiated his surrender, though the situation later complicated when he attempted to escape.
Laconia's Preparation for Expansion
Captain Santiago Singh prepared for a crucial role in Laconia's expansion plans. After meeting with High Consul Duarte, he received command of Medina Station, marking the beginning of Laconia's strategic move to control the gate network.
There was no path where we left the gates alone. No future where we didn't use the technologies... And there wasn't likely to be one where we didn't face the same kind of pushback that killed the ones who came before us.
Changes Aboard the Rocinante
Holden and Naomi decided to retire from the Rocinante, choosing Bobbie Draper as their successor. The transition marked a significant change for the crew, with Bobbie assuming command and dealing with the challenges of leadership.
The Laconian Invasion of Medina
Laconia launched its invasion by taking control of Medina Station with overwhelming force. Their superior technology and military might, demonstrated through their advanced ships and weapons, left the defenders with little chance of resistance. Singh assumed control as governor, implementing strict security measures and facing the challenges of maintaining order.
Insurgencies are historically nearly impossible to eradicate, for a few very simple reasons. The insurgents don't wear uniforms. They look just like the innocent populace. And, they're the friends and family of that populace.
Resistance and Underground Movement
As Laconian control tightened, resistance movements emerged on Medina Station. Holden, Naomi, and the crew of the Rocinante became involved with the underground resistance, working to gather intelligence and undermine Laconian authority. Bobbie Draper led dangerous missions, including attaching surveillance equipment to Laconian ships.
I've spent a lot of years trying to get people to get along without anyone's boot being on anyone's neck. Your plan A is what I've spent a lifetime pushing against... That had seemed overwhelming at the time.
The Battle for the Sol System
The conflict escalated as Laconia moved to take control of the Sol system. Drummer led the Transport Union's defense against the Laconian warship Heart of the Tempest, but their superior technology proved overwhelming. The destruction of the void city Independence marked a turning point in the conflict.
Earth is humanity's first and truest home. The soil from which all of us, whatever system we now inhabit, first grew. Earth will always, always, be central to the greater project of humanity in the universe.
Duarte's Vision and the New Order
As Laconia consolidated its power, Duarte's vision for humanity's future became clear. The capture of James Holden proved significant, as Duarte sought to discuss the protomolecule and humanity's destiny with him. Meanwhile, Singh's removal from his position on Medina Station demonstrated the strict standards of Laconian rule.
I've been where you are right now. I'm the only one in the whole human race who has... But the part where all human history rides on what you do, and you only get one shot? That's only you and me.
The story concluded with Laconia's successful takeover of human-colonized space, while resistance movements continued to operate in secret. Duarte's meeting with Holden suggested further developments in humanity's relationship with the protomolecule and its creators, setting the stage for future conflicts and revelations.