On Zenith, Ptolemy works in a culture that prizes scientific openness, practical innovation, and shared funding for discoveries. From his rural laboratory estate, Ptolemy and Dr. Elchan have built a productive partnership, and Ptolemy remains baffled by Butlerian hatred of technology because he sees medicine, agriculture, and prosthetics as tools for human benefit.

After Manford Torondo rejects Ptolemy’s offer of functional prosthetic legs on Lampadas, Ptolemy tries to convince himself that the failed outreach can be set aside. Dr. Elchan, more frightened by Butlerian fanaticism, is relieved to be home and focuses on their work with artificial limbs, nerve connections, organic circuitry, and recovered cymek walker remnants.

A week later, forty Butlerian ships descend on the laboratory estate. Swordmasters and club-wielding zealots pour out, chase down fleeing workers, and attack at least one technician while Ptolemy and Elchan stand helplessly outside the main research building. Manford arrives carried by Anari Idaho and claims he has come to put Ptolemy on the proper path.

The Butlerians force their way into the laboratory and begin smashing equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and windows. Manford condemns the artificial limbs, nerve-growth beds, analysis machines, and dismantled cymek walkers, then says Ptolemy may still be saved but Elchan cannot be. Anari severs Elchan’s prosthetic arm below the shoulder, leaving him bleeding and helpless.

The attackers drag Ptolemy outside, leave Elchan inside, and set the laboratory on fire. Ptolemy begs them to rescue his friend, but Manford refuses, declaring Elchan unworthy of salvation; when Elchan tries to escape through a window, Butlerians beat him back into the burning building. Anari forces Ptolemy to watch as the flames spread and Elchan screams until he dies.

After the Butlerians depart, Ptolemy remains amid the smoldering ruins, devastated but not broken. He decides not to endanger his scientist siblings by involving them, but he recognizes that Manford’s attack has changed his beliefs and purpose. Ptolemy forms a detailed plan, understanding that Manford has created a new enemy.