Chapter Text
Another kilometer, another air sample.
“Analyzing . . .”
The distant calls of the forest’s native inhabitants were once again overpowered by the whirring of S.A.M.’s assessment of the atmosphere’s composition.
Slowing their gait to a halt, they passively wondered if their presence was disturbing any creatures nearby. They’ve already diminished the standard power of their remote lab components in an attempt to reduce their noise pollution of the serene landscape.
Perhaps their silhouette appeared to be in stark contrast to the warm hues of the surrounding vegetation? If they were to transfigure their body into a less imposing form, would they finally be able to have a closer encounter with the wildlife that has so far remained skittish?
They were pulled from their thoughts with another chime, marking the completion of the analysis.
“Results: 58% Nitrogen. 19% Oxygen. 12% Hydrogen. 8% Helium. 3% Trace Elements”
No significant change despite their increased proximity towards the strange mountain range that had initially seemed so far at the beginning of their journey.
S.A.M. once again let their attention be held by what they reasoned was an optical illusion; shimmering particles danced in the rosy sky just above the highest peak. Perhaps visible evidence of a gas emitted from a formation within the mountain?
Though it remained a mystery to them as of yet, they contented themselves with what they did know. Despite the notable disparity of nitrogen from Earth’s atmosphere, the oxygen levels were only just below. That, along with similar planetary rotation and revolution periods, a gravity within the target range, and the development of sophisticated life forms- this planet looked very promising indeed.
Concluding their daily report with that note, S.A.M. began to survey for possible materials to make a shelter for the night.
Though it was a convenience S.A.M. knew many of their creator’s kind envied, their ability to deactivate their physical senses provided a state they always found a bit troublesome to return from.
The sudden weight of their own body made them stumble.
The ground was soft, but it was cold now, just within the shadows of the trees.
However, their survey would stand completed without adequately reporting on the ability to use the planet’s resources for basic human needs.
And so they got to work collecting materials for tonight’s structure: a stick hut.