Manteru

Manteru is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "The Serpent's Gate" by A.J. Miller. The planet is characterized by its unusual atmospheric composition, which creates a perpetual twilight and causes strange optical illusions for its inhabitants. Manteru orbits a binary star system, with its two suns casting long, shifting shadows that are a significant environmental factor.

The indigenous species of Manteru, known as the Lumina, have adapted to these low-light conditions. They possess bioluminescent organs that allow them to communicate and navigate their dimly lit world. The Lumina society is depicted as deeply spiritual, with a strong connection to the natural phenomena of their planet. Their architecture is integrated with the natural landscape, often utilizing caves and natural formations.

The plot of "The Serpent's Gate" involves a human expedition landing on Manteru. The human characters struggle to adapt to the planet's environment and the unique biology of the Lumina. Misunderstandings and conflicts arise as the humans attempt to understand and interact with the native population and their world. The planet Manteru serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of xenophobia, cultural exchange, and the challenges of interstellar exploration. Its unique ecosystem and the Lumina's way of life are central to the novel's narrative and thematic development.