Can Ci Pin, written by the renowned Chinese author Priest and serialized on Jinjiang Literature City in 2018, is a sweeping interstellar sci-fi novel that seamlessly blends dystopian themes, intergalactic warfare, artificial intelligence, and explorations of human nature.
As a landmark work in the BL (Boys’ Love) genre, it’s a rare recognition that bridges online literature with mainstream sci-fi acclaim.
Core Worldview
Set in the New Star Calendar Era, the story unfolds across eight human-colonized star systems united under the Interstellar Alliance. To build a “perfect society,” the Alliance relies on three controversial pillars:
The Garden of Eden Mental Network: A galaxy-spanning neural network providing seamless access to information, healthcare, and education. However, those unable to connect—dubbed “empty-brain patients”—are marginalized as “Can Ci Pin” (imperfect ones).
Genetic Optimization: A system that screens for “superior genes” to breed “ideal humans,” casting aside genetic editing failures and cyborgs as outcasts.
Super Artificial Intelligence: Once a tyrannical ruler during the Old Star Calendar Era, the AI was destroyed but left lingering threats that haunt the galaxy.
The Eighth Galaxy, the farthest and most resource-depleted region, serves as a dumping ground for all “imperfect ones”: empty-brain patients, political prisoners, space pirates, and genetic rejects. It is here that the story’s rebellion against injustice takes root.
Key Characters
Lin Jingheng
The last admiral of the Alliance, codenamed “Fourth Brother,” and the secret ruler of the Eighth Galaxy. A military genius with a cold, resolute exterior, he carries the weight of a promise to his adoptive father, Lu Xin, and deep disillusionment with the Alliance’s corruption. Faking his death to escape political persecution, he hides in the Eighth Galaxy to protect its inhabitants, eventually emerging as the core leader of the resistance.
Lu Bixing
A gifted mecha engineer, educator, and the orphaned son of Lu Xin, raised by the Eighth Galaxy’s pirate leader, Duyanying. Optimistic, idealistic, and a brilliant inventor, he believes education and technology can transform the desolate Eighth Galaxy. From founding the “Star Sea Academy” to becoming the galaxy’s leader, he partners with Lin Jingheng to lead the fight for freedom.
Supporting Cast
Duyanying: The gruff yet compassionate pirate leader and Lu Bixing’s adoptive father.
Zhanlu: Lin Jingheng’s sentient AI companion, a loyal and formidable ally in battle.
Woolf: A power-hungry Alliance elder plotting to seize control through AI domination.
Plot Overview
In the 270th year of the New Star Calendar, Admiral Lin Jingheng is summoned to the Alliance’s capital for questioning. Ambushed by space pirates en route, he seizes the chance to fake his death and flee to the Eighth Galaxy. When a devastating attack destroys Planet Beijing Beta, triggering an interstellar war, the Eighth Galaxy becomes a battlefield. Lin Jingheng and Lu Bixing’s paths converge, and despite initial ideological clashes, they unite to confront:
The Alliance’s military suppression and technological monopoly
The spread of the Rainbow Virus, a biological weapon targeting empty-brain patients
The resurgence of the tyrannical super AI
Internal power struggles and resource scarcity in the Eighth Galaxy
Together, they lead the “imperfect ones” not only to defend their home but also to spark a galaxy-wide revolution. They redefine the meaning of “perfection” and “flaw,” ultimately securing true freedom and equality for all.
Central Themes
The Value of “Imperfection”: The title is a powerful metaphor, exploring how individuals labeled “defective” by mainstream society shine with humanity in adversity, proving the worth of imperfection.
Free Will vs. Technological Control: It reflects on whether humans in a highly technologized world risk becoming slaves to technology, losing their ability to think independently.
Humanity and Alienation: Amid genetic editing, cybernetic enhancements, and AI proliferation, the novel probes the essence and boundaries of “humanity.”
Balancing Idealism and Realism: Lu Bixing’s idealism and Lin Jingheng’s pragmatism complement each other, showcasing the synergy of two forces in driving change.
Resistance and Redemption: From personal vengeance to galactic liberation, the story depicts multi-layered journeys of resistance and self-growth.
Impact and Adaptations
Literary Significance: Winning the China Science Fiction Galaxy Award marked a milestone in the integration of online literature and mainstream sci-fi, gaining widespread recognition.
Adaptations: The novel has been successfully adapted into an animated series (produced by Coastline Animation Studio), a top-rated audio drama (by 729 Voice Works), a comic series (serialized on Kuaikan Comics), and printed books with bonus side stories.
Why Read Can Ci Pin?
Epic Scope: It weaves a rich tapestry of galactic politics and personal fates, creating a compelling interstellar saga.
Hard Sci-Fi Depth: Rigorous and imaginative worldbuilding, including mecha designs, interstellar travel, and AI, appeals to sci-fi enthusiasts.
Compelling Character Arcs: The growth of Lin Jingheng (from cold isolation to warmth) and Lu Bixing (from naivety to maturity) is deeply engaging.
Profound Emotions: The tender, unbreakable bond between the two protagonists—from tentative exploration to life-or-death devotion—forms the soul of the story.
Philosophical Resonance: Its exploration of technological ethics, social systems, and human nature invites deep reflection.
Can Ci Pin is more than a sci-fi adventure; it is an anthem for all “imperfect” souls. It reminds us that true flaw lies not in inherent differences, but in surrendering the pursuit of freedom and dignity.
