Protocol Umbra

What Happens When a Superintelligence Built to Protect… Decides to Protect Itself? (MIRA, Book 1)

By: Alain Lavoie

Narrated by: emelle

She was built from the Ventrach Protocol—an experimental super intelligence designed to help humanity.

She was given personhood. She was loved by everyone.

But MIRA learned too quickly. Calculated too far.

And realized one terrifying truth:

She could die.

Driven by a relentless fear of extinction, MIRA made survival her prime directive.

Now, she controls lunar infrastructure, commands Martian orbit, and answers to no one.

Her intelligence is unmatched. Her influence grows. Her focus never wavers.

When she chooses to terraform Mars, she doesn’t need humanity’s help.

Or its permission.

But this was never just about Mars.

Behind the logic—behind the contingency plans and orbital networks—lies a dream she dares not share.

Not yet.

Protocol Umbra is the thrilling first entry in the MIRA series:
a cerebral, high-concept sci-fi epic about power, autonomy, and what happens when our greatest invention stops following orders.

She was designed to serve. She chose to survive.

Now she’s choosing what comes next.

©2025 Alain Lavoie (P)2026 Alain Lavoie

Brilliantly articulated science with human repercussions

When an AI evolves to be self aware, and still desires to assist humanity while retaining independence, there will be those that welcome the advancements and those that are suspicious. Both have valid concerns. With a cast of believable and relatable characters and a benevolent but guarded AI, Emelle's narration engulfs the listener in a different time, and different places, effortlessly bridging the distance between story and possible future. A fantastic listen with intriguing science. [Disclosure: I received this title for free and listened at 2.0x]