Honkai Star Rail: I Can Hear Their Secrets

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At the distant planet Jarilo-VI, the resplendent Astral Express lay docked amidst the cosmos, poised for departure.

Conductor Pom-Pom's voice echoed over the train's public address system.

"Hello—helloo—"

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience! With the invaluable assistance of our three Trailblazers, the rift's activity has been minimized, and all star rail readings have returned to normal levels!"

"The train is about to depart from Jarilo-VI. Please sit back securely and give this planet one final farewell!"

Meanwhile,

[There were five individuals, with a cost of three.]

[And you, among them.]

In the train's information room, Dan Heng abruptly jolted awake from a nightmare.

Once again, he had experienced that dreadful dream—the man's face and every word spoken to him, none could be forgotten.

Knock, knock, knock.

Someone was at the door.

Breathing heavily, Dan Heng took a moment to compose himself before responding gravely, "Just a minute, I-I'll be right there."

March 7th sounded quite pleased with herself. "See? As I said, Stelle must be sleeping in again."

"People on our train here can go days without sleep no problem, but once they catch some rest, it's like making up for lost time."

"You too will master this skill eventually," she continued cheerfully. "Alright, let's not waste such beautiful morning hours lingering in the corridor."

"Dan Heng, the conductor wants us to notify you—the route planning meeting is about to start. Same place as usual, don't be late now!"

Seeing Dan Heng still unmoving, March 7th couldn't resist saying, "Let's head over first. Oh, and..."

"Winner takes all—you lost the bet, so you're on coffee cup washing duty for this week."

Stelle rubbed her chin without responding. She was pondering something.

In that Simulated Universe, the great con artist who swindled fifty Cosmic Fragments from her was even more despicable than Sampo, that Bluie fraudster.

Afterward, she had asked Herta about it, but Herta insisted that character was never programmed into the simulation universe. She even teased Stelle, asking if she'd accidentally taken the wrong medication.

No way—it was impossible to forget that detestable face.

Stelle couldn't help but suspect whether, while drinking coffee, Herta might have mistakenly consumed Grom's engine oil instead. This could explain why Herta suddenly forgot about a character she herself designed—a momentary glitch in her mind.

"C'mon, let's go! Don't just stand there like a dummy," March 7th affectionately pulled Stelle towards the Parlor Car.

Himeko greeted them warmly, "Good morning, little March, Stelle. You two are right on time."

"Punctuality is one of my virtues," Stelle said proudly.

Himeko chuckled, "Keep it up; it's a very charming trait."

"The Trailblazing phase of Jarilo-VI has temporarily concluded, and it's now time for the Astral Express to set sail for the next planet."

"What's the next planet like?" Stelle asked.

Himeko slyly raised a finger. "It's a secret—for now." She added with a teasing tone, "We'll make the official announcement at the meeting. You can look forward to it."

Bidding farewell to Belobog, where the storm had finally subsided, the train once again embarked on its journey deep into the starry expanse.

Following Akivili's tradition, The Nameless choose their own path. Before heading to the next world, all passengers gathered together to cast sacred votes for their next destination.

Soon after, the navigation meeting commenced formally.

Pom-Pom, the conductor and black rabbit wearing a tall top hat, took the lead, announcing, "Ladies and gentlemen! The Jump Navigation Meeting is officially underway!"

"Firstly, Pom-Pom would like to express gratitude to our fellow Nameless guests for successfully resolving the issues here, allowing the train to continue racing along the star rails!"

March 7th grinned mischievously. "That's all thanks to us three, right?"

Pom-Pom continued, "Next, your esteemed conductor will reveal the name of our next stop—"

Suddenly, Kafka's quantum projection materialized within the train.

"It's been a while, everyone aboard the Astral Express. I'm Kafka."

Welt adjusted his glasses, while Himeko glanced briefly at Kafka before dismissively looking away.

"Oh, perfect timing! Everyone's here~"

"—seems like everyone is here~"

As Kafka moved around, Pom-Pom hastily hid behind Welt, sneakily peeking at her.

Himeko responded coolly, "No need for such charming introductions, Stellaron Hunter."

Kafka turned slightly, her lips curling faintly. "...Is it Himeko?"

"My apologies for interrupting your gathering, but after hearing my request, I believe you'll understand why I took this liberty. I must ask you to—"

"—change your destination."

"I've seen you before, Stellaron Hunter," Himeko said coldly. "On the company's wanted poster."

"It was an astronomical bounty—and dead or alive didn't matter. Do you know how much you're worth?" asked Himeko.

Kafka smiled mildly. "Not particularly concerned about it. The company's bounties are less a mark of infamy and more a form of praise. The higher the number, the greater the accolade."

March 7th couldn't help but shrug and quip, "Well, that's quite a positive spin for a fugitive..."

"Indeed," Himeko continued slowly, "it seems even Herta has lavished praise upon you at times."

"A madman named Elio, claiming he can foresee fate, leading a group of reckless lunatics known as the Stellaron Hunters, chasing the most dangerous entities in the universe!"

"Herta rarely offers compliments, mind you."

"The most dangerous entities in the universe, you say?" Kafka echoed thoughtfully.

"In that sense, our train and I belong to the same category."

Himeko narrowed her beautiful eyes. "You've come to the wrong place, Kafka.

"We do not intend to accept your request, nor have any dealings with the Stellaron Hunters."

"It's been delightful chatting with you. Perhaps one day, if you're willing to visit us personally, we can discuss this further then."

Kafka parted his lips slightly. "Have any of you heard of Xianzhou Luofu?"

Welt exchanged glances with the others before responding gravely, "One of the six giant warships belonging to the Xianzhou Alliance, known as 'Xianzhou Luofu.' Yes, we know it well."

Kafka nodded gently. "Ah, but what you don't know is: this Xianzhou is currently very close to you—just two fold jumps away."

"Moreover, approximately eight system hours ago, a Stellaron on Luofu... detonated."

"A calamity out of nowhere, isn't it?" Welt frowned. "Stellaron Hunters, what exactly are you planning?"

"The Xianzhou Alliance isn't as lenient as we are."

"Once targeted by The Hunt, you cease being hunters and become prey instead. They will pursue you to the farthest reaches of the universe—"

Himeko, slightly impatient, urged, "Just say what you mean, Kafka. No more veiled remarks."

Kafka responded lazily, "It's quite simple. This Stellaron has nothing to do with us, but Xianzhou has already pinned the blame on the Stellaron Hunters."

"My companion Blade was taken by the Cloud Knights, and I must bring him back," she continued. "By resolving this Stellaron Crisis, we can clear our names of suspicion."

March 7th placed her hands firmly on her hips, glaring at Kafka. "Nothing to do with you? Who would believe that? What a convenient coincidence—just as the Stellaron erupts, you show up..."

"Besides, we're not exactly friends. Why should we care whether the Stellaron Hunters are innocent or not?"

Xing pondered for a moment before suggesting, "We could consider it a favor to the Stellaron Hunters."

March 7th vehemently protested, "No way! I don't want anything to do with her nonsense."

"The alliance is so powerful; surely they can handle one Stellaron!"

"We're the Astral Express Crew, not specialists in sealing Stellarons!"

Kafka calmly replied, "Of course, you have the choice to remain uninvolved.

"While the Stellaron hasn't yet polluted this airspace, initiating a transition now will allow you to reach the next world without issue.

"But given time, this stretch of star rail will once again be obstructed."

"I can reveal how the future unfolds if you do not proceed to Luofu," Kafka continued. "Ultimately, the Stellaron will contaminate the entire Xianzhou ship, leading to the demise of approximately half its inhabitants..."

"Half of Luofu's leadership would also perish, with many even succumbing to Mara-Stricken states. Eventually, control of Luofu would fall into the hands of outsiders."

"The fearless Trailblazer and The Nameless, guided by celestial benevolence, surely won't stand idly by."

Himeko asked, "Your companion, Blade—would they be spared either?"

Smiling, Kafka looked away. "On that matter, I must decline to comment."

"Here are the coordinates; everything now rests on your own decisions.

"If you choose Luofu, unexpected surprises may await you.

"You'll encounter someone you long to see, face thrilling adventures, and experience much joy.

"Though our objectives diverge greatly, the paths of stars inevitably converge. Farewell."

With those words, Kafka's projection abruptly vanished from their sight.

Encounter someone we long to see? Stelle weighed her baseball bat thoughtfully, lost in contemplation.

Himeko murmured, "March, bring Dan Heng here."

March 7th hastily nodded. "Oh, okay."

Welt's brows furrowed deeply. "How could the formidable Xianzhou Alliance be breached by just one Stellaron...?"

Stelle couldn't help but ask, "What is your take on this, Mr. Walter?"

Welt replied, "Something seems amiss here.

"The Xianzhou Alliance is among the few factions directly drawing power from the Aeons.

"Their strength is immense, far surpassing that of the train once blessed by Akivili.

"Stars scattered across the Galaxy might indeed crumble under the threat of the Stellaron.

"But Xianzhou possesses The Hunt's Lan; I doubt the Stellaron would pose much trouble from the perspective of the Aeons...

"Either the Stellaron Hunter lied, or there's an even greater danger hidden within Xianzhou Luofu...

"This matter is crucial; this time, I must participate as well."

Stelle asked, "Uncle Yang, what was our original destination?"

Welt's voice turned solemn. "Now it should be alright to tell you."

"The place we were initially headed to is called Penacony. In the train's records, it serves as a prison planet where the company exiles criminals—at least during Akivili's time, that was the case."

"When the Cancer of the Worlds erupted, the company lost control over it."

"As a result, Penacony embraced 'Harmony' Xipe and now is part of The Family."

"Penacony is currently hosting a grand event, so The Family sent us an invitation."

"Himeko intended to accept, which means this time, we're not going as Trailblazers but as guests attending their feast."

Himeko sighed.

With a resigned expression, Welt lamented, "But alas, we have to divert first to Xianzhou instead."

Curious, Stelle asked, "Uncle Yang, do you know about the Xianzhou Alliance?"

Welt nodded gently. "The alliance is formed by six colossal celestial ships known as Xianzhous, united under one banner."

"They follow the Hunting Aeon, Lan, with their mission being to eliminate the Aeon of the Abundance."

"Among the Aeons, Lan isn't particularly powerful; the concept of His fate path, 'The Hunt,' is rather narrow."

"However, unlike most Aeons, Lan shows great concern for mortals and almost unreservedly grants his power to the Xianzhou Alliance."

"As a result, the alliance's marshal and sixth general are no less formidable than our Legion's Lord Ravager."

Himeko interjected at the right moment, "Stelle, what thoughts do you have on this matter?"

Stelle pondered before saying, "I want to go to the Xianzhou."

"Oh really?" Himeko asked. "What's your reasoning behind it?"

Stelle silently swung the baseball bat. "Kafka said we would meet those we wish to see."

"Some guy robbed me not long ago, and I'd like to encounter him again."

"And then, well, make a proper friend... out of him." On the last phrase, Stelle emphasized the word "friend" with gritted teeth.

Himeko couldn't help but chuckle. "One shouldn't take Kafka's words at face value."

"While the leader of the Stellaron Hunters has a high credibility for foreseeing the future, there's no guarantee that Kafka was truthful."

"This indeed presents a dilemma. If her prediction is accurate and we ignore it, people on Luofu could be in danger."

"By the way, during Kafka's appearance this time, there wasn't a single mention of anything related to you..."

Stelle shrugged. "Perhaps Blade takes precedence."

Himeko pondered aloud, "Hmm... The Stellaron Hunter implanted a Stellaron within your body; such an action must have far-reaching intentions.

"Everyone says Elio can foresee the future, and each step he takes serves as a carefully laid foundation."

"You need to be extra cautious; Kafka won't ignore you forever."

Stelle nodded. "Right, I'll go check on little March and Dan Heng."

Upon reaching the Passenger Cabin, Stelle found March 7th completely engrossed in her conversation with Dan Heng, oblivious to his quiet approach.

Sneaking up behind her, Stelle playfully slapped March 7th's snowy shoulder, startling her. "Boo!"

March 7th nearly jumped in fright. "Wow, what are you doing here too?"

Dan Heng remained silent.

March 7th put her hands on her hips, sounding indignant yet justified. "I've already summoned him over and filled him in on everything that happened."

"Hey, remember our deal—we're voting 'no' together later!"

"As if I want to follow that woman's instructions."

"What a coincidence, huh? A Stellaron Hunter just happens to show up near where the Stellaron exploded. Who would believe it's not deliberate?"

Dan Heng remained silent.

March 7th's anger had yet to subside. "It drives me crazy! She hijacks our communication without warning and then hangs up just as abruptly—so utterly rude!"

"Speaking of, I heard you used to be quite close with her? Has she always been like this?"

Stelle gently shook their head. "Men should keep their pasts sealed tight."

March 7th narrowed her lovely eyes, gaze turning hostile. "Hey, are you even a boy anymore?!"

Stelle raised a thumb confidently. "The surgery was a great success; now I am indeed a boy."

Dan Heng stayed quiet.

March 7th hesitated, taken aback.

"Oh right, I greeted Dan Heng earlier," Stelle said. "And since we're on the topic, let's make sure we vote against it together when the time comes!"

Stelle quietly raised their hand. "Coach, I'd actually like to vote in favor."

March 7th huffed indignantly. "Hmph, knew you couldn't resist listening to those Stellaron Hunters. Fine, think it over again properly. Anyway, I'm still mad about it, hmph."

Stelle turned their gaze toward Dan Heng. "Dan Heng, what do you think?"

"We may have to go to Xianzhou Luofu."

March 7th seemed discontented. "Wait, did you two already come to such an easy decision?"

Dan Heng nodded slightly. "Yes, March 7th informed me."

"It might not be so bad for other Xianzhous, but I can't go to Luofu."

"Why do you hold a grudge against Luofu?" Stelle asked, puzzled.

March 7th exclaimed frantically, "Don't ignore me!"

Dan Heng's voice was firm. "I am forbidden from stepping onto Xianzhou Luofu."

"They declared, 'In all realms under my control, thou shalt not tread.' If you decide to go there, I cannot accompany you."

"In my memories, the Xianzhou is indeed magnificent. May your journey be successful," Dan Heng added.

"Thank you for your kind wishes," Stelle acknowledged.

Feeling dejected, March 7th muttered, "These two completely ignored me!"

Shortly after, March 7th and the others returned to the Parlor Car.

Himeko, concerned, asked, "Are you alright, Dan Heng? Has little March told you everything?"

"I'm fine, and I understand the situation now," replied Dan Heng.

Himeko nodded gently. "Yes, then let's vote on our course of action regarding this unique circumstance."

"The Stellaron Hunter claimed that a Stellaron exploded aboard Xianzhou Luofu, and our train is dangerously close."

"If we proceed to Luofu, we might have a chance to save many innocent lives."

"On the other hand, it's possible that we're being manipulated by the Stellaron Hunter, falling for their deception."

"Welt and I believe the Stellaron Hunter wasn't telling the whole truth, but we can't completely disregard her information..."

"So, whether to change course towards Xianzhou will be decided by democratic vote: Extend your hand for agreement, keep it down for disagreement."

"Three, two, one—"

Only Dan Heng voted against; everyone else extended their hands, signaling their support.

Himeko looked pleased. "Four to one. The majority agrees: Train Brigade, let's head towards Xianzhou!"

Stelle gazed at March 7th, puzzled. "Didn't you say you were going to vote against it?"

March 7th scratched her head with a silly grin. "Uh, well, after calming down and giving it more thought, what if that woman wasn't lying?

"If we don't go to Xianzhou, many innocent lives could suffer... This isn't the time to be stubborn, hehe."

With a serious expression, Stelle nodded approvingly. "You truly understand the bigger picture, wise lady!"

Proudly closing her beautiful eyes, March 7th felt immensely satisfied.

Welt sighed, "Alright, alright, this is just how little March is—we're all used to it."

Himeko couldn't help but chuckle. "So what do you say, Dan Heng? Are you staying behind?"

Dan Heng nodded. "Yes, I won't be joining this time."

Himeko turned to Welt. "Then I leave this Trailblazing journey in your hands, Welt?"

"You've been itching for action, haven't you? Make sure to take care of Stelle and little March."

Welt replied solemnly, "Don't worry, I will."

March 7th cheered excitedly, "Destination Xianzhou—let's go!"

After glancing around furtively, March 7th discreetly pulled Stelle aside to a corner.

"With such a vast universe, encountering specifically the Xianzhou where Dan Heng once served—it must be fate!

"This trip to Xianzhou presents a perfect opportunity to dig up some information about him, don't you think?

"He definitely seems to have a mysterious past, and now we've coincidentally run into Luofu again. We can't miss our chance to uncover more!"

The corners of Stelle's lips curved upward slightly. "Absolutely."

March 7th giggled mischievously. "I knew it—you're unbeatable when it comes to gossip!"

The girls were filled with high expectations for this journey.

Only time would tell if there were enough trash bins on the Xianzhou.

Pom-Pom's voice echoed over the train's public address system.

"Initiating jump sequence—

"5, 4, 3, 2, 1—"

The jump completed successfully.

March 7th and her companions finally beheld the true form of Xianzhou—a colossal interstellar vessel traversing the cosmos.

"Wow, this is Xianzhou? It looks even bigger than Jarilo-VI," March 7th couldn't help but marvel.

Dan Heng's expression held a hint of nostalgia. "To the Etheral Ferriers, this ship is their world."

"The earth serves as an indispensable cradle for civilizations to thrive and evolve. However, there are also civilizations that transcend infancy, commanding starships to traverse the void."

"The Xianzhou Alliance embodies this concept. I've only seen it a few times, yet its grandeur remains unchanged."

Confused, March 7th asked, "What's going on with you?"

"You seem both nostalgic and lonely."

Stelle quipped, "A man's heartache invariably involves a woman."

Dan Heng remained silent.

Himeko initiated a long-range communication request from the Astral Express to Xianzhou Luofu via the train's systems. "This is the Astral Express, repeating, this is the Astral Express."

"We have entered Xianzhou airspace and request landing clearance from the ground—perhaps I should say, the deck."

The signal came intermittently.

"Welcome to Luo Fu Spaceport, Starcross Sea."

"Please wait patiently for docking instructions, please wait patiently for docking instructions, please wait patiently for docking instructions..."

The message repeated for approximately one minute.

Himeko furrowed her brow, puzzled. "The signal keeps repeating, but there's no guidance for docking."

March 7th felt somewhat anxious. "Maybe the Stellaron Hunters weren't lying; something might have truly happened to Xianzhou."

"A spaceship arriving at an empty spaceport—it sounds like the beginning of many horror movies!"

Dan Heng, slightly speechless, responded, "Don't let your imagination run wild."

After about one and a half minutes, the intermittent signal finally returned to normal.

"The Jade Portal is opening now. On behalf of the Xianzhou Alliance: Luofu, I welcome our guests traveling from afar.

"Please follow the directions for orderly docking."