Ch. 201The Source of the Effect
Key Plot Points and Events
- A 'D-Class Personnel' sneezes violently and dies, marking the start of a sneezing phenomenon that kills various animals around a lake.
- The group discovers that the sneezing is compulsory and not caused by any material stimulus, affecting all animals and lasting until death.
- They decide to find the source of the effect in the lake, believing it to be a Contained Object with a spreading range.
- A submersible remote-controlled aircraft is sent to search for the object, but it's damaged by a large, seemingly unaffected catfish at the lake's bottom.
Character Developments
- Mo Qiong, initially confused by the Instructor's feedback, understands the exercise's rules and takes the initiative to suggest a solution for retrieving the catfish.
- Alexander expresses doubt about Mo Qiong's plan but doesn't dismiss it outright.
Significant Themes
- The power of the Instructor in determining outcomes in exercises.
- The uncontrollable and spreading nature of the sneezing effect, raising concerns about global disaster.
- The need to find and contain the source of the effect to prevent further harm.
Character Interactions
- Mo Qiong and Alexander have a brief exchange about Mo Qiong's plan to retrieve the catfish, with Alexander expressing doubt but not dismissing the idea.
- Chris, as the captain, makes decisions and delegates tasks, such as ordering the retrieval of the catfish and requesting a larger machine.
- The group works together to analyze the situation, share information, and plan their next steps.