Honkai Star Rail Simulation: I'm Surrounded By Characters

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The Astral Express emerged from the jump tunnel.

This was the closest exit point to Xianzhou, but reaching Luofu's current coordinates would still take several days.

Over these few days, Su Qing felt that boarding the train had been the right choice. He enjoyed solitude yet also appreciated interacting with others.

With Himeko aboard, familiar company, and pleasant interactions with his fellow passengers, this journey far surpassed traveling alone among the stars.

[Qingque: Suddenly realized, Su Qing is quite like a Trailblazer indeed, always exploring different domains.]

[Qingque: Photography - awesome! Combat - awesome! Academics - awesome! Hacking - awesome! The battleground of relationships... also awesome!]

[Seele: Can the last one really be considered 'awesome'?!]

[March 7th: Qingque makes a valid point.]

[March 7th: Each new simulation brings a fresh profession, perfectly embodying the spirit of a Trailblazer!]

[Sparkle: @Black Swan, I'm more curious about whether, after becoming a Trailblazer, Su Qing will betray Kafka and Himeko alongside Stelle and March 7th?]

[Stelle, March 7th (instantly responding): Of course not!]

[Sparkle: Hard to say ~]

[Black Swan: That's unclear even to me.]

[Black Swan: But conveniently, up next is a segment showing Su Qing's life on the train. Everyone can observe for themselves.]

Su Qing and Stelle had recently boarded the train, choosing rooms adjacent to each other.

Stelle often visited, seeking inspiration for arranging her own room layout.

They frequently chatted as well. Given their recent experiences, most of their conversations revolved around the topic of Stellaron.

"So, it was Kafka who placed the Stellaron within you, awakening you?" Su Qing asked, intrigued.

Stelle scratched her head. "Yeah, I was pretty dazed at the time, but she mentioned something about reaching the end through my own will."

"I see." Su Qing didn't elaborate further.

However, his gaze towards Stelle instantly softened considerably.

[Sparkle: How delightful.]

[Sparkle: @Stelle, putting aside everything else, your seniority is now firmly established.]

[Natasha: (laughs)]

[Natasha: From now on, Stelle will sit at the kids' table with Hook.]

[Bronya: Actually, based on age since awakening, Stelle is even younger than Hook...]

[Seele: LOL, Hook:?! What's this about sitting with a one-year-old? Who dares to join me, the mighty Black Hook!?]

[Stelle: Yada-yada, can't I at least sit with Clara?!]

[Clara: Big Sister Xing... (on tiptoes) (pats head gently) Don't cry, don't cry, we'll sit together.]

[Bronya: Now she's being comforted by Clara.]

[Seele: ? Well then, you should call Clara 'Big Sister' from now on.]

With the familiarity from the Stellaron and their subtle connection through Kafka, Su Qing indeed felt inclined to look after Stelle more closely.

"A bat that won't shatter despite pounding on a Doomsday Beast—now that's quite a Curio."

Holding the baseball bat, Su Qing demonstrated, "If using it as a weapon, grip it like this; it allows for better force application."

Following his guidance, Stelle exclaimed, "Oh wow! You're right! It feels easier to break rules now!"

It was unclear why Stelle was so insistent on breaking rules, but seeing her eager expression, as if asking, "Am I doing well? Am I?"—seeking praise—

Su Qing adopted his interaction style with Kafka and gently patted her head, saying, "Exactly, you're doing great."

[Stelle: Yay! A head pat!]

"Eh?"

Stelle seemed slightly intrigued but didn't resist.

Her height was quite tall, with long legs and an upright posture, nearly matching that of the boys.

And Su Qing stood half a head taller than her.

This height difference instilled in her a sense of reliance and comfort.

Stelle's eyes softly squinted, enjoying the affectionate gesture.

In truth,

Stelle felt incredibly fortunate.

Despite losing her memories and feeling bewildered by everything,

soon after her "birth," she joined the Astral Express, instantly gaining several trustworthy companions to rely on.

This brought her considerable reassurance amidst the unknown journey ahead.

[Fu Xuan: @Kafka, did you plan all this from the start?]

[Fu Xuan: Intentionally leaving Stelle where March 7th and Dan Heng would notice her.]

[Kafka: Hmm, you've guessed it correctly.]

[Kafka: However, Su Qing joining the train was indeed unexpected.]

"What are you guys chatting about?"

Next to appear on screen was March 7th.

After Su Qing and Stelle boarded the train, aside from Himeko, perhaps little March seemed the most delighted.

Everyone aboard the Astral Express was friendly. However, Uncle Yang was reserved, Dan Heng somewhat aloof, and Sister Himeko mature. It always felt like there were no peers for casual conversation.

Incidentally, out of sheer boredom once, March 7th had even tried tying a bow around Pom-Pom's ears.

[Seele: Ah?!]

[Qingque: Little March, you're truly terrifying!]

[March 7th: I just thought it would look cute...]

Finally, some age-mates have joined!

It goes without saying that Stelle quickly became close with March 7th as they shared playful antics together.

As for Su Qing, at first, March 7th assumed he was similar to Dan Heng—both seemingly stoic chefs.

[Stelle: Stoic chef? Where can I find cold noodles?]

[March 7th: You must be really hungry!]

[Himeko: Stelle and little March make quite the comedic duo; they indeed complement each other well.]

To her surprise, over these few days, March 7th discovered that Su Qing was very easygoing. Not only did he readily engage in jokes, but his conversations were also quite engaging.

Combined with his vast knowledge, culinary skills, ability to perform magic tricks—like making objects vanish from the table and reappear in his hands...

Most importantly, he had extensive knowledge about photography!

[Firefly: ??? Photography? Isn't that my keyword?!]

[Stelle: Wow! Impressive!]

[Qingque: ? We haven't even backstabbed Himeko yet, but unexpectedly, Firefly got stabbed first. That's something I didn't foresee.]

In March 7th's room, she showcased various photographs she had taken since waking up to Su Qing and Stelle.

Stelle's interest and admiration naturally delighted March 7th. However, what truly amazed her was how Su Qing could discern her progress in photography skills!

From identifying which photos were particularly striking and explaining why they worked well, to suggesting slight adjustments for more engaging compositions...

Su Qing's insightful analysis made March 7th nod repeatedly, feeling as if she had encountered a true expert. Her eyes sparkled with excitement!

March 7th: "Really? Okay, let me move slightly to the left. Perfect, say cheese!"

Even on the train, Su Qing took advantage of different backgrounds to provide impromptu photography lessons.

Eagerly, March 7th leaned in to see the photos he had helped her capture.

[Sparkle: Does this seem familiar?]

[Sparkle: The same scenario unfolded earlier with Penacony!]

[Firefly: (deeply hurt) Ugh...

[Sparkle (smiling widely): @Firefly, how do you feel right now? Would you like to share with us?]

[Stelle: Sparkle, naughty!]

[Silver Wolf: Silver Wolf, happy!]

[Firefly: I don't know how to express it... But, @March 7th, little March, what's the meaning of this??]

[March 7th: Ah, well, umm... It's just, I-I didn't mean...?]

[Seems unsure how to explain]

Inside the train carriage, Su Qing held the camera while Stelle and March 7th stood on either side of him.

"Let me see too," Stelle leaned closer.

March 7th exclaimed, "Oh no, skip that one! I blinked during that shot!"

Instantly intrigued, Stelle replied, "Don't skip, don't skip, hurry up, I want to see March 7th's awkward photo!"

"It's not awkward at all; a pretty girl looks good in any picture!" March 7th defended herself.

Stelle burst out laughing, "Ha ha ha, March 7th half-closing her eye, so amusing."

Feeling both embarrassed and annoyed, March 7th retorted, "Su Qing, stop taking this seriously and admiring that photo! Just move on, quickly!"

In the carriage, laughter filled the air as Su Qing, Stelle, and March 7th enjoyed themselves.

However, if the scene shifted slightly to the right...

The original focus moved away from them, now centering on someone sitting nearby, sipping coffee at a table.

Himeko lightly bit her lip, watching enviously as the trio laughed together.

[Sparkle: (ROFL) Hahahaha!]

[Sparkle: These kinds of situations always bring me the most amusement!!]

[Qingque: Impressive! Black Swan knows how to shift focus with clever camerawork.]

[Seele: @Firefly, no need to fret now; someone else seems even more anxious than you.]

[Firefly: Hmm, but it's quite strange. Can anxiety really be transferred...?]

[Firefly: Why do I suddenly feel better seeing Himeko so visibly jealous at the scene?]

[Himeko: Firstly, I am not jealous.]

[Kafka: Classic ex-girlfriend behavior—can't stand seeing Su Qing talk to any other woman.]

[Himeko: Firstly, I am not jealous.]

[Bronya: ? @Himeko, isn't your current speaking style somewhat similar to Silver Wolf's?]

[Gasp... Himeko caught herself abruptly.]

[Ah, without realizing it, I've started mimicking Silver Wolf's stubborn repetition style!]

[Himeko: But I'm not being stubborn.]

[Bronya: You're sounding more like her by the minute!]

[Silver Wolf: Just a clumsy imitation, nothing more. 😕]

After observing this exchange for a moment, Himeko rested her forehead on her hand.

Was she becoming overly suspicious lately? Even Stelle and little March seemed worried now.

It was clear they were just friends, peers of the same age...

Huh?!

Himeko suddenly realized something peculiar.

Despite several years having passed,

why did Su Qing look exactly the same as when they were university students together?!

[Silver Wolf: Seriously? @Himeko, you're only noticing now?]

[Herta: Diagnosis: Love has clouded your judgment.]

During their time at university on Water Blue Star, Himeko and Su Qing were of the same age.

In particular, within their relationship, Himeko often leaned on Su Qing's guidance, becoming quite dependent on her.

But now...

If it were today, even if Su Qing called her "Big Sister," it would seem perfectly normal and reasonable to others...

At this thought, Himeko's breathing quickened slightly.

She took a sip of coffee to conceal her flushed cheeks.

This sudden realization evoked a rather intriguing feeling in her.

[Fu Xuan: Upon realizing that Su Qing is younger than both of you, instead of questioning why, your first reaction was these strange thoughts.]

[Fu Xuan: @Himeko, you truly mirror Kafka...]

[Qingque: Once again confirmed, our tastes align remarkably!]

[Kafka: Don't compare me to her; I don't have any strange thoughts.]

[Sparkle: Yeah, right. You both want that little cart ride, huh? I see through you two completely. 😏]

[Clara: Question! What does "little cart ride" mean?]

[Natasha: Good kids shouldn't ask about such things.]

Himeko's growing unease was not unfounded. She felt that whenever their relationship came up, Su Qing subtly avoided the topic.

It wasn't just with Stelle and March 7th. Even when interacting with Dan Heng, Welt, or Pom-Pom, Su Qing engaged enthusiastically in conversation.

Himeko gently bit her lip.

How did it end up like this?

I was the first one here, and it was I who invited him aboard...

Why am I now the one left out of the discussions...?

[Silver Wolf: ? This is a textbook case of going from Tian Hu (perfect start) to utter collapse—everyone can learn something from it.]

[Guinaifen: Amused, our Tsundere textbook is explaining the Honkai collapse lesson, what a spectacle.]

[Silver Wolf: Hmm? Do you have some issue with me, the S1 Championship winner?]

[Guinaifen: Ha ha, wouldn't dream of it.]

[Stelle: Little Silver Wolf, quite the arrogance!]

Himeko's unease persisted until they reached Luofu.

Currently, all was calm at their destination, allowing the train to effortlessly establish contact.

Since Himeko had visited Atuin Universal last time, this Trailblazing mission would be led by Welt.

Of course, if needed, Himeko could promptly lend assistance.

The group bid farewell to Himeko, who remained on the train for now.

March 7th waved her hand. "Alright, Sister Himeko, we're off."

"Take care and rest up, Sister Himeko," Stelle said. "We'll bring back good news!"

Then, she nudged Su Qing with her elbow. "Your turn."

Su Qing looked puzzled.

March 7th suppressed a giggle. "It's our train tradition—make sure to give a proper goodbye to Sister Himeko (emphasis on 'sister')."

Following the mood, Su Qing spoke up, "Well then, see you later, Himeko... sis."

Ah.

Only after saying it did Su Qing realize how peculiar it sounded.

What am I doing? How did they manage to make me actually call her that?!

In any case, Welt, Dan Heng, March 7th, Stelle, and Su Qing set off for Luofu.

Only Himeko remained frozen on the spot.

After a moment, she brought her left hand to her chest, gently touching her slightly flushed cheeks with her right.

Indeed, I shouldn't overthink things.

Both Stelle and March 7th are such good kids...

[Silver Wolf: Just because they made Su Qing call you "sister," you're not jealous anymore?]

[Silver Wolf: Really?!]

[Black Swan: Little Silver Wolf truly doesn't understand.]

[Natasha: Little Silver Wolf completely misses the point.]

[Silver Wolf: ???]

[Kafka: ...]

[Kafka suddenly feels envious of Himeko.]

[Despite each situation being disastrous for Himeko, it's precisely her advantageous position that allows these collapses to occur.]

[Himeko spends every day with Su Qing on the train; regardless of circumstances, there must be some perks.]

[Black Swan: So, based on this interaction, does everyone think Stelle and little March would betray her?]

[March 7th: No way!]

[Stelle: Me neither! My loyalty to Sister Himeko is unwavering!]

[Seele: Tch—clearly, you voted for Kafka earlier.]

[Stelle: Well, loyalty and filial duty have always been difficult to balance.]

[Qingque: Though it sounds absurd, Stelle's predicament seems quite genuine.]

[Bronya: I'm not entirely convinced.]

[Bronya: Between Stelle and March 7th, one possesses extraordinary wisdom, while the other loves shipping couples.]

[Bronya: They could either assist or betray, seemingly down to pure luck...]

[Black Swan: Guess we'll just have to watch their performance on Xianzhou then.]

***

Initially, Su Qing expected a typical Shuttle Envoy.

To his surprise, the one who greeted them was a stunningly beautiful fox maiden dressed elegantly.

[Tingyun: (Long-time lurker)(Can't stay silent anymore now)]

[Tingyun: Aiya, didn't expect to be the first character from Xianzhou to appear.]

"Having heard much about the Astral Express, meeting you all today truly confirms your exceptional talents and remarkable presence."

Tingyun, with her honeyed words, showered compliments upon introduction, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere as everyone exchanged mutual praise briefly.

Engaging in conversation with Welt, the group leader, Tingyun's gaze swept over the party, lingering slightly on Su Qing.

How peculiar.

This gentle young man seemed oddly familiar to Tingyun. She had an excellent memory for faces; if they'd met before, she wouldn't have forgotten him. Yet despite never having seen Su Qing, he appeared strikingly recognizable—how could that be?

[Tingyun: Indeed, indeed, what's going on here?]

[Seele: Le, repeating oneself verbatim.]

[Stelle: A hallmark feature of observing simulations—one must savor it!]

March 7th, ever lively, chimed in, "Miss Tingyun, any interesting news aboard the Xianzhou lately? Do tell us!"

Dan Heng nodded, recalling their purpose for this visit, and asked whether there was anything Luofu needed assistance with from the Astral Express.

Tingyun chuckled softly, covering her mouth. "You're all so eager, and yes, there are plenty of happenings. However, Luofu has always been peaceful, and I wouldn't want to burden our esteemed guests with such concerns."

"But..." Normally, she wouldn't mention this, but as she glanced at Su Qing again, something compelled Tingyun to say, "Luofu remains tranquil, yet recently, I've felt a constant chill, almost as if some malevolent presence is following me..."