T he scalpel's edge was exactly one atom wide; it delaminated the skin of 
Hackworth's palm like an airfoil gliding through smoke. He peeled off a strip 
the size of a nailhead and proffered it to Dr. X, who snatched it with ivory 
chopsticks, dredged it through an exquisite cloisonné bowl filled with 
chemical dessicant, and arranged it on a small windowpane of solid diamond.