Revelation Space

The Revelation Space universe is a complex and sprawling science fiction setting created by Welsh author Alastair Reynolds, first introduced in his 1999 novel of the same name. It depicts a future where humanity has colonized numerous star systems across the Milky Way galaxy, only to find itself caught in a web of conflict with advanced alien civilizations pursuing their own mysterious agendas.

The Rise of the Conjoiners and Ultras

In this accelerated version of the Revelation Space timeline, the development of two key factions - the Conjoiners and the Ultras - rapidly eclipsed the expansion of mainstream human societies across the galaxy.

The Conjoiners emerged from early 21st century experiments in mind uploading, neural implants, and nanotechnology, coalescing into a tight-knit, hive-mind-like collective intelligence. Able to seamlessly network their minds and share information, the Conjoiners quickly surpassed baseline humans in scientific and technological capabilities. They sought to "elevate" all of humanity into their cybernetically-enhanced state, which led to a violent clash with those who resisted.

Meanwhile, the genetically-engineered Ultras arose from human attempts to create superior physical and cognitive abilities for space exploration and colonization. Possessing enhanced strength, senses, and longevity, the Ultras spread outward from their initial settlements, often displacing or subsuming human populations in the process. Many Ultras embraced a nomadic, expansionist lifestyle, seeking to constantly grow their influence and access to resources.

The Inhibitor Threat

Complicating the power struggle between the Conjoiners, Ultras, and more traditional human societies, the Revelation Space universe also features the presence of a mysterious, ancient machine intelligence known as the Inhibitors. These vast, robotic entities act as a kind of cosmic police force, monitoring the development of sentient species across the galaxy and forcibly suppressing any that they deem a threat to the "order" they seek to maintain.

The Inhibitors have been active for millions of years, ruthlessly demolishing entire civilizations that show signs of technological singularity or expansion beyond a certain level. As both the Conjoiners and Ultras rapidly advanced, they drew the attention and ire of the Inhibitors, leading to an escalating conflict that has devastated many star systems and human colonies caught in the crossfire.

Fragmented Humanity

Faced with the overwhelming power of the Conjoiners and Ultras, as well as the unpredictable and destructive interventions of the Inhibitors, mainstream human societies have become increasingly fractured and marginalized in this Revelation Space timeline. Most remain confined to a small number of star systems, struggling to maintain their traditional ways of life and cultures.

Some humans have opted to join the Conjoiners, willingly sacrificing their autonomy for the perceived benefits of the hive mind. Others have aligned with the Ultras, either as willing genetic augments or as displaced refugees. But a substantial portion of humanity has also rejected both factions, instead forming isolationist "unenhanced" enclaves that attempt to resist the forces of posthuman transformation.

This fragmented, embattled state of humanity serves as the backdrop for the many interlocking narratives and dramatic conflicts that play out across the Revelation Space universe. As the balance of power shifts and the Inhibitors continue their crusade, the fate of organic human civilization hangs in the balance.