Ch. 981Humanoid Camera
Key plot points and events
- Three mercenaries—Edis, Casey, and Shazuo—are hauled back through the wormhole after exploring the alien planet. Shen Bing welcomes them and assigns them to the Blade Mercenary Corps, where they will continue exploring the world beyond the Portal.
- Shen Bing uses a helmet to display the explorers’ memories and impressions directly, effectively turning them into “humanoid cameras.”
- The group studies footage of a huge skeleton. Luo Fei argues that its bones appear too intact to be ancient, while Shen Bing notes that some life can exist without oxygen. The planet’s biology and history remain uncertain, but the area around the wormhole’s exit seems safe.
- Luo Fei proposes sending Master Qiao to investigate local materials, test solar power and electronics, and build a small simulated ecological base for the explorers.
- Though worried about risking his only Divine Puppet Artisan, Shen Bing decides to proceed. He equips Master Qiao with ten thousand immortal jade and sends him through the wormhole, tethered by a rope for the return journey.
Character developments and interactions
- The mercenaries are exhausted and apprehensive, but quickly recognize Shen Bing and feel fortunate to serve under him. Their outward gratitude contrasts with their private resentment at being sent to the alien world.
- Shen Bing is pleased to have them back and confidently directs their future work; his joke about hearing their curses makes them fear he can read their thoughts.
- Luo Fei shows scientific caution and initiative: he challenges the assumption that the planet is lifeless and offers a practical plan for establishing a foothold.
- Thorne voices doubts about how life could exist without oxygen and questions the origins of the enormous skeleton.
- Shen Bing weighs the danger of losing Master Qiao against the need to advance, then commits to the expedition. Master Qiao responds with characteristic confidence.
Significant themes
- Exploration amid uncertainty: The team must act despite having only limited evidence about the alien planet.
- Science and practical problem-solving: Observations about the skeleton, oxygen, solar energy, and local resources shape the next steps.
- Risk and ambition: Shen Bing accepts that expanding into the unknown requires risking valuable resources.
- Power, coercion, and atonement: The former criminals are given a chance to serve humanity, but their assignment is effectively compulsory.