Caelus looked at a train as he looked at the group. "When you said the Astral Express was a train, I didn't expect to be an actual Train".
Caelus stood in awe as he gazed at the Astral Express, a magnificent train that seemed to shimmer with starlight against the backdrop of the cosmos. Its sleek, metallic exterior glimmered with hues of blue and silver, and the sound of soft whirring echoed as the train seemed to hum with energy.
"Yeah, it's pretty cool, right?" March chimed in, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's not just any train; it travels across the universe!"
Dan Heng nodded, crossing his arms as he observed Caelus. "It's a mobile base for us. We use it to explore different worlds and protect them from threats. But it's more than just a means of transportation."
Caelus blinked, still processing the concept of a cosmic train. "So, it can actually travel between dimensions? And we're just hopping on?"
Himiko smiled, her voice warm and inviting. "Exactly! The Astral Express has the power to traverse not just space but time itself. It allows us to visit various worlds, gather information, and, most importantly, protect those who can't protect themselves."
As the group approached the train, the doors slid open with a soft hiss, revealing a warm, inviting interior filled with vibrant colors and a cozy atmosphere. The walls were adorned with star maps and displays showcasing different galaxies, while plush seats lined the aisles, each equipped with small consoles displaying various functions.
Caelus stepped inside, feeling a sense of wonder wash over him. "This is incredible," he said, glancing around. "It feels more like a home than a train."
March giggled as she took a seat by a window. "Welcome aboard! You'll get used to it in no time. We have a few rules to follow, though."
Dan Heng took a seat across from Caelus, his expression serious. "First and foremost, we need to work together. There will be challenges ahead, and we can't afford to act recklessly."
Caelus nodded, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. "I understand. I'm ready to do my part."
As they settled in, a holographic projection flickered to life in the center of the cabin. Herta's voice chimed in, crisp and clear. "Greetings, crew of the Astral Express! I trust you've all settled in. Caelus, welcome aboard. I hope your experiences so far have been enlightening."
Caelus leaned forward, intrigued. "Thanks, Herta. What's next for us?"
The hologram shifted, displaying a rotating star map with various markers blinking across it. "We have received reports of disturbances in a nearby dimension. It's imperative we investigate and determine the cause. Your skills will be essential, especially given your unique abilities, Caelus."
"Unique abilities?" Caelus echoed, glancing at March and Dan Heng, who shared knowing looks.
March smiled encouragingly. "You've got that Stellar core, remember? Herta thinks you could do some amazing things with it!"
Dan Heng added, "We'll be counting on you. Your powers could turn the tide in our favor."
Caelus took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of excitement and anxiety. "I'll do my best."
As the train began to move, the stars outside blurred into streaks of light, and the familiar hum of the engine filled the cabin. Caelus felt a thrill rush through him. This was a new beginning, a chance to explore, fight, and perhaps find his place among these extraordinary people.
March leaned back in her seat, her gaze fixed on the view outside. "Just wait until you see the worlds we visit. Each one is more incredible than the last."
"Yeah," Dan Heng added, his tone contemplative. "But remember, not all of them will be welcoming. We'll need to be prepared for anything."
Caelus nodded, a determined spark igniting within him. "I won't let you down."
As the Astral Express soared through the cosmos, Caelus couldn't shake the feeling that his life was about to change in ways he had yet to imagine. With the weight of the universe resting on their shoulders, he and his new friends were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Caelus took a seat, but then he stopped as he looked at someone wearing next to him, it was Herta as he dropped to the floor
Caelus looked at him. "What are you doing here"
Herta looked at and smirked. "Simple I am here to keep an eye on you"
Caelus narrows his eyes as he looked at her. "Don't you have the Space Station too look after".
Herta just smiled at him that looked more like a smirk. "I have more puppets to look after that place".
Caelus raised his eye brow. "So this is not your real self... So you are an Old hag"
Herta looked at him and kicked him on the leg. "Bitch".
Caelus winced as Herta's kick landed squarely on his leg. He quickly scrambled to his feet, trying to regain his composure while rubbing the spot where she had struck him. "Okay, okay! No need to get violent!" he exclaimed, still slightly startled by her sudden appearance.
Herta's smirk widened, clearly enjoying the banter. "If you're going to be my puppet, you need to toughen up a bit, Caelus. Besides, I can't let you get too comfortable. You've got a Stellaron inside you, and I need to make sure you don't end up blowing up the train or something equally catastrophic."
Caelus narrowed his eyes at her, feeling a mix of annoyance and curiosity. "And how do you plan to keep me from doing that? Just kick me whenever you feel like it?"
Herta shrugged nonchalantly, her playful demeanor not fading. "It's one way to keep you in check. Besides, I find your reactions entertaining."
March, overhearing their conversation, giggled as she leaned forward in her seat. "You two are already getting along, huh? Just wait until you see Herta in action. She's got a knack for making sure everything runs smoothly."
Caelus shot a skeptical glance at Herta. "If you're the one keeping things running smoothly, I might be more worried than I thought."
Herta raised an eyebrow, pretending to be offended. "Hey! I'll have you know I'm a brilliant scientist and the owner of this station. I'm not just some puppet master pulling strings."
"Sure, sure," Caelus replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "A brilliant scientist who looks like a 12-year-old doll."
Herta pouted, crossing her arms. "You know, I could always disable your powers or lock you in the storage room for a while. I have the technology to do it."
Caelus laughed, shaking his head. "Okay, okay, you win. Just don't go full dictator on me. I'm just trying to figure all of this out."
"Good," Herta replied, her expression softening a bit. "I want you to succeed, Caelus. You have potential, but you need to learn control. That Stellaron and Honkai core inside you are powerful, and with great power comes—"
"Great responsibility?" Caelus interrupted, rolling his eyes. "Yeah, I've heard that one before. But what if I just want to enjoy my life without having to save the universe all the time?"
March piped up, "You'll find a balance! Plus, you'll have us to help you out. We're a team, after all."
Caelus glanced at his new companions, feeling a sense of warmth and camaraderie. "I guess so. As long as you don't kick me every time I mess up."
Herta chuckled, the smirk returning to her face. "Only if you give me a reason to, Caelus."
Caelus just rolled his eyes, as he got up and started to go. "Yeah yeah what every"
Herta then looked at him. "Also my real self is not a old hag"
Caelus just smirked at her. "Yeah sure, so bye".
Caelus made his way down the aisle of the Astral Express, ignoring Herta's exasperated expression as he walked away. He could hear her muttering under her breath, and it brought a smile to his face. The train was surprisingly cozy, with soft lighting and a warm atmosphere that contrasted with the cold vastness of space outside.
As he reached the end of the car, he spotted March and Dan Heng sitting together, animatedly discussing their next mission. They looked up as he approached.
"Where did you go?" March asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Did you have a secret meeting with Herta?"
"More like a 'secretly annoy her' session," Caelus replied with a chuckle, taking a seat across from them. "She's just as sassy as I imagined."
Dan Heng leaned back, a hint of amusement on his face. "You'll get used to it. Just don't let her get under your skin too much."
"Easier said than done," Caelus remarked, crossing his arms. "She kicked me."
March gasped in exaggerated horror. "What? Why would she kick you? Did you say something mean?"
Caelus shrugged. "Not exactly. I just pointed out she looks like a doll."
Dan Heng chuckled, shaking his head. "That's definitely a rookie mistake. Herta has a knack for taking things personally, even if she acts tough."
"Great. Just what I need," Caelus sighed, leaning back in his seat. "So what's the plan now?"
March leaned in, her excitement palpable. "We're heading to a new planet to investigate some strange energy readings. Herta thinks it could be connected to a new type of Honkai creature."
"Sounds like fun," Caelus said, trying to sound enthusiastic. "What kind of creatures are we talking about?"
Dan Heng exchanged a glance with March before answering. "We don't know yet. That's why we need to be prepared for anything. The last time we encountered a new type of Honkai, it didn't end well for a lot of people."
Caelus felt a knot tighten in his stomach. "And I'm just supposed to jump in and help, right?"
"Exactly!" March replied cheerfully. "But don't worry. We've been through a lot together, and we always come out stronger. You'll fit right in!"
Caelus nodded, though he still felt a lingering uncertainty. "I just hope I don't blow anything up this time."
Just then, the train jolted slightly, causing the lights to flicker. Herta's voice crackled through the intercom. "Attention, passengers! We are approaching our destination. Prepare for landing and make sure to secure your belongings!"
Caelus exchanged glances with March and Dan Heng, excitement mixing with anxiety. This was it—the first mission with his new team, and he was determined to prove himself.
"Let's do this," Caelus said, rising from his seat and taking a deep breath. "Whatever's waiting for us out there, I won't back down."
March beamed at him, her optimism infectious. "That's the spirit! Together, we'll face anything!"
As the train began to slow, Caelus felt a rush of adrenaline. This was his chance to forge his path, to embrace his new abilities, and to find his place among these extraordinary individuals.
With a final glance at his companions, he stepped toward the exit, ready to confront whatever challenges awaited him on the new planet.
Caelus then asked Pom Pom where his room was, he went to his room, whice he released that he may need to decorated this place
Caelus just felt to his bed and active his system. "So what can you do"
[ Finally, you are asking an actual question and here I thought you will be keeping hate flirting with Herta ]
Caelus rolled his eyes at the system's comment, lying back on the bed as he stared up at the ceiling. "I'm not flirting with her. I'm just trying to figure out what this place is and how I fit into it."
[ I understand, but I have a lot of capabilities that could assist you. Here's a breakdown: ]
Caelus listened intently, eager to learn more about the powers he had seemingly awakened within himself.
[ Abilities Overview:
1. Star Manipulation: You can manipulate star-like energy, allowing you to create constructs, blasts, and shields made of stellar energy. This includes the ability to heal yourself and others.
2. Space Manipulation: You can control space itself, creating portals, bending space to your will, and even altering the flow of time in small areas.
3. Honkai Core Activation: Your Honkai core grants you enhanced physical abilities, increased resistance to damage, and the ability to absorb and utilize Honkai energy.
However, you must be cautious with these powers. Overexertion can lead to a backlash.]*
Caelus took a moment to process the information. "So, I'm basically a walking universe now?"
[ In a sense, yes. However, your control over these powers is limited and will require practice to master fully. ]
"Great," Caelus muttered, running a hand through his silver hair. "What else do I need to know?"
[ You should focus on training and refining your abilities. The more you understand your powers, the more effectively you can use them in combat or other situations. It's also essential to build a connection with your teammates, as they can help you when you encounter challenges. ]
Caelus sat up, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. "Yeah, teamwork. Right. What if they see me mess up?"
[ Everyone makes mistakes, especially when learning new skills. The Astral Express team values growth and camaraderie. Embrace the journey. ]
With a sigh, Caelus swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up. "Alright. Let's take a look around. I might as well start making this room feel a little more like home."
He moved around the small quarters, taking stock of what little furniture was present. The walls were a dull gray, and the bedding was a simple navy blue. It felt sterile and lifeless, far from the vibrant and chaotic energy he felt inside him.
"Time for a makeover," he said to himself. "This place needs some color."
Caelus began to rearrange the furniture, trying to create a layout that felt more comfortable. He grabbed a few of his personal belongings from his bag, including some framed pictures and posters. The pictures showed moments from his past life—a mixture of friends and adventures that felt both distant and comforting.
As he hung the posters, he began to think of ways to incorporate his new powers into his decoration. "Maybe I could use my star energy to create some cool light effects," he pondered aloud. "A little ambient glow might liven this place up."
[ That sounds like a good idea, but remember to keep it subtle. You don't want to draw unwanted attention. ]
"Yeah, yeah, I'll keep it under control," Caelus replied, feeling a surge of determination.
With his room starting to take shape, he felt a sense of belonging beginning to bloom within him. "If I'm going to be part of this team, I might as well make my mark," he said, a smile creeping onto his face.
Feeling invigorated, he decided to check in with March and Dan Heng. Maybe they could help him find ways to explore his new powers—or at least offer some tips on fitting in on the Astral Express.
As he exited his room, he was ready to embrace the adventure that awaited him.
To be continued
Hope people like this Ch and give me power stones