In a world ravaged by colossal, mindless creatures that consume everything in their path, humanity faces extinction. The protagonist, Westover, finds himself navigating a flooded landscape, struggling against despair as he encounters one of these titanic monsters. Realizing the creature's body has created a dam, he climbs onto it, seeking refuge and a way to survive. Exhausted and desperate, he begins to understand the nature of the monsters, which are vast, brainless beings that have evolved to travel through space, consuming all organic material on planets they invade. As Westover grapples with his situation, he experiences a mix of hope and despair. He realizes that the monsters' insatiable hunger threatens not only his life but the very existence of humanity. In a moment of clarity, he devises a plan to survive by feeding on the monster itself, transforming into a parasite. This bizarre existence allows him to sustain himself while contemplating the implications of humanity's parasitic relationship with the monsters. Eventually, Westover discovers that the monster is preparing to leave Earth, which prompts him to seek help. He encounters a mysterious figure, the Preacher, who leads him to a hidden community of survivors living within the monster. This group, led by a scientist named Sutton, has been working on a way to adapt to their new reality. They have developed methods to create air and harness the monster's internal processes for survival. As Westover integrates into this community, he shares his insights about humanity's need to adapt and survive as parasites. However, Sutton warns him of the dangers of overpopulation and the potential for humanity to destroy their hosts. They discuss the importance of maintaining a balance to ensure their survival without exhausting the resources provided by the monsters. The narrative explores themes of survival, adaptation, and the moral implications of parasitism. Westover's journey from a desperate survivor to a member of a new society reflects humanity's resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. The story culminates in a moment of tension as the monster prepares to leave Earth, symbolizing both a new beginning and the uncertainty of the future for humanity as they embark on a new existence among the stars.
By Robert Abernathy · First published 2021 · Genre: Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, Adventure