Magnificat - Julian May (Galactic Milieu Trilogy #3)

By the mid-21st century humanity is beginning to enjoy its membership of the Galactic Milieu: a confederation of exotic races spread throughout the galaxy. Human colonies thrive on numerous planets, more and more are being born with the metaphysic abilities that characterize the next step in human evolution... and before long these gifted minds will at last achieve total Unity.

But xenophobia is deeply rooted in the human soul. A growing corps of rebels plots to keep the people of Earth forever separate in the name of human individuality. At their head is Marc Remillard, scion of the very family that led humanity into the Galactic Milieu – and one of the most formidable metaphysicists ever.

His aim is the elevation of human metaphysics above all others, by way of artificial enhancement of mental faculties. His goal – a generation of bodiless brains with gargantuan metaphysic powers – is horrific.

And only Marc’s brother Jack the Bodiless and the young woman called Diamond Mask can foil Marc’s plans and pave the way for the Golden Age of the Galactic Milieu to begin...