-No One's P.O.V-

The Astral Express hums gently as it glides through the stars. The interior of the Parlor Car is filled with a serene yet purposeful atmosphere, where every detail speaks of countless journeys across the cosmos. In the lounge, (Y/N) (L/N) sat at a table, his short blunt sword resting on the surface beside him.  The blade, wrapped in a cloth with a splattered black dot design, was an extension of his being—an embodiment of his stoic and methodical nature. His calm eyes were focused on the holographic display in front of him, analyzing the latest data from their journey.

(A/N: Those who understand the appearance of (Y/N)'s weapon, it is a reference from another anime, you deserve praise to know it~!)

Welt Yang: (Entering the room with a thoughtful expression) "Still going through the data from our last encounter, (Y/N)?"

(Y/N) (L/N): (Nodding without looking up) "Yes. There's always something new to learn from each mission, even if it's just a minor detail."

Himeko: (Joining them, holding a steaming cup of coffee) "Ever the diligent one, aren't you? I sometimes wonder if you ever take a break."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Glances up with a faint, almost imperceptible smile) "Breaks are a luxury we can't always afford, Himeko. Especially now, with the Stellaron in Caelus."

Pom-Pom: (Bouncing over with an energetic hop) "Oh, don't be so gloomy! We've got to keep spirits high, even when our friends are off exploring Jarilo-VI."

Himeko: (Sipping her coffee) "Pom-Pom's right. It's important to stay optimistic. Besides, they have Dan Heng and March with them. They'll manage just fine."

Welt Yang: (Sitting down across from (Y/N)) "Still, it's a significant mission. The Stellaron's presence there complicates things. Caelus is handling it well, though."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Eyes flicker with a hint of concern) "He'll need to. The Stellaron's influence is unpredictable. We must be prepared for any eventuality."

Himeko: (Reaching out to touch (Y/N)'s arm gently) "You always worry too much, (Y/N). We can't control everything. Trust in their abilities. They are strong."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Softens slightly at Himeko's touch) "I trust them. It's the unknown variables that concern me. But you're right, Himeko. We must have faith in them."

Pom-Pom: "Speaking of unknowns, any new findings from the data, (Y/N)?"

(Y/N) (L/N): (Turns back to the holographic screen) "A few anomalies in the energy readings. It's subtle, but there might be a connection between the Stellaron's energy signature and the planet's core."

Welt Yang: "Interesting. That could explain the unusual geological activity we've been observing."

Himeko: "If that's the case, we need to find a way to stabilize it. The safety of the planet's inhabitants could be at risk."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Nods) "Precisely. I'll compile the data and send it to Caelus and the others. They'll need this information."

Himeko: (Smiling warmly) "Always the reliable one, (Y/N). Let's hope this helps them."

Welt Yang: "It will. And we'll be here, ready to support them in any way we can."

Pom-Pom: "That's the spirit! Now, how about a cup of tea while we wait for their update?"

(Y/N) (L/N): (Allowing a rare, small smile) "That sounds... agreeable."

-Time Skip-

The calm after the storm was palpable aboard the Astral Express. The team had just dealt with the Stellaron situation on Jarilo-VI with the help of Belobog and the Underworld, defeated Cocolia, and witnessed Caelus's upgrade from the Path of Preservation. Now, the express glided smoothly through space, heading towards their next destination: The Xianzhou Luofu. The crew, enjoying a rare moment of respite, gathered in the common area, sharing stories and reflecting on their recent adventures.

March 7th: (Reclining on a sofa, stretching her arms above her head) "Finally, some peace. That was quite an adventure on Jarilo-VI."

Caelus: (Leaning back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face) "Yeah, but we did it. Cocolia's defeat and the Stellaron's containment were critical. I just hope Belobog can rebuild and thrive now."

Dan Heng: (Nods) "The people of Belobog are resilient. They have what it takes to recover."

Pom-Pom: (Bouncing cheerfully) "And now, we're off to The Xianzhou Luofu! Another adventure awaits us."

Welt Yang: (Sipping his tea, looking contemplative) "Indeed. Every new destination brings its own challenges and opportunities."

Himeko: (Sitting beside (Y/N), glancing at him from time to time) "It's never boring, that's for sure. How about you, (Y/N)? Any thoughts on our next mission?"

(Y/N) (L/N): (Still focused on the data in front of him, his expression calm and collected) "The Xianzhou Luofu will present its own set of variables. We must be prepared for anything."

Himeko: (Smiling softly, appreciating his dedication) "Always so focused. Sometimes I wonder if you ever relax."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Glancing up at her, a rare hint of warmth in his eyes) "Relaxation comes when the mission is complete and our comrades are safe. Until then, there's work to be done."

Himeko: (Heart fluttering slightly, she quickly looks away, hiding a blush) "Of course. You're right, as always."

Caelus: (Noticing the exchange with a slight smirk) "You two make a great team, you know."

March 7th: (Grinning) "Yeah, always in sync. It's like you can read each other's minds."

Himeko: (Laughs lightly, trying to hide her embarrassment) "We've been working together for a long time. It's only natural."

Welt Yang: (Observing the interaction with a knowing smile) "Indeed. Trust and understanding are crucial in our line of work."

Pom-Pom: (Hopping excitedly) "And we're all lucky to have each other. Teamwork makes everything possible!"

Dan Heng: "Agreed. Now, we should rest and prepare for our next mission. The Xianzhou Luofu won't wait for us."

As the crew continued their conversations, Himeko found herself stealing glances at (Y/N) more frequently. Despite his usual stoic nature, there was something about him that drew her in, something she had felt ever since their early days on the Astral Express. Unbeknownst to (Y/N), Himeko had been harboring romantic feelings for him for years. Their close friendship had only deepened over time, and though she longed to express her feelings, she knew the timing had to be right. Their journey of trailblazing and sealing Stellarons took precedence, but in the quiet moments, she allowed herself to dream of a future together.

-Later that evening, in the observation deck-

Himeko stands by the large window, gazing out at the endless expanse of space. (Y/N) approaches, his footsteps barely audible on the polished floor.

(Y/N) (L/N): "Couldn't sleep?"

Himeko: (Startled slightly, then smiled) "Just needed some time to think. The stars are always so calming."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Standing beside her, looking out at the stars) "They remind us of how vast and unpredictable the universe is. And how small our problems can seem in comparison."

Himeko: (Nods) "True. But sometimes, the smaller, personal problems feel just as vast."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Glances at her, sensing a deeper meaning in her words) "Is something troubling you, Himeko?"

Himeko: (Takes a deep breath, deciding to speak her mind) "We've been through so much together, (Y/N). And through it all, I've come to value our friendship deeply. But... there's something more that I've felt for a long time."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Turns to face her, his usual stoic expression softening) "Himeko..."

Himeko: (Looks into his eyes, her heart pounding) "I... I have feelings for you, (Y/N). More than just friendship. I care about you deeply, and I've wanted to tell you for so long, but... our mission always comes first."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Surprised, but also moved by her honesty) "Himeko, I... I didn't know. You've always been a close friend and confidante to me. Your support means more than I can express."

Himeko: (Smiles sadly) "I know it's not the best time to talk about this. Our journey isn't over yet. But I needed you to know. Whatever happens, I wanted you to know how I feel."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Gently takes her hand) "Thank you for sharing this with me. Your feelings matter to me, Himeko. And while I may not be the best at expressing emotions, know that you hold a special place in my heart."

Himeko: (Eyes glistening with unshed tears, she squeezes his hand) "We'll have time to talk about this more once our mission is complete. For now, let's focus on the task at hand. Together."

(Y/N) (L/N): (Nods, a rare, genuine smile forming) "Together."

As they stand side by side, watching the stars, an unspoken understanding passes between them. Their journey may be fraught with challenges, but with each other, they can face anything. The Astral Express continues its voyage, carrying not just a crew, but a family bound by trust, respect, and unspoken love.

-And now, we brought to you a funny short scenario below: "Honkai Star Strolling!". This short scenario doesn't affect the main one-shot!-

In the midst of the chaos during Jarilo-VI, we see (Y/N) (L/N), Himeko, and Welt Yang looking over the planet through the large window.

Himeko is seen clinging onto (Y/N)'s left arm closely until Welt adjusts his glasses before speaking up...

Welt: Himeko, we have to watch over them. This is no time to show affection.

Himeko: We are though.

(Y/N): (Firmly) Welt's right. We have to watch over Caelus, March, and Dan Heng for their progress. Stay focused, Himeko.

Himeko then gives (Y/N) a look of affection or something else that she has in mind until she says...

Himeko: Then why don't you lend it to me, (Y/N)? Just a little bit~♥

(Y/N) showed a hint of surprise through his usual stoic nature.

(Y/N): Himeko, no. You're being wild today right now... *Turns over to Welt* Hey, Welt. A little hand-

As soon as (Y/N) turned over to Welt for assistance, there was only a dust cloud of himself there, and (Y/N) stood there in silence with Himeko looming over him like a predator.

-Meanwhile at Jarilo-VI-

Despite the progress on Jarilo-VI, March 7th, Caelus, and Dan Heng were outmatched by lesser mobs on the way...

Caelus: Didn't Himeko, Mr. Yang, and (Y/N) say they're gonna help us if we need it? *Angry* Well isn't this enough for them?!

March 7th: I don't wanna die to this!!

Dan Heng: With this treasure, I summon-

-Back at Astral Express-

We return to Astral Express, we see Welt Yang who seemed to be tensed up when he felt his peers were in danger at Jarilo-VI.

Welt: Something is wrong... Something went wrong!

That's when we see (Y/N) running out of the Passenger Cabin with a few red lipstick marks on his face and a faint blush spread across your face, yet your clothes remained intact but a hint of a mess on it as if you had escaped.

(Y/N): Huff...Huff... Damn that woman...!

Himeko: *Standing Behind with a Smile* Ara ara~♥

...

(A/N: For those who are wondering about it... No, once again, this is a comedy side story, both (Y/N) and Himeko didn't do "it". )

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