honkai star rail · aventurine · ipc · stoneheart · gambler · tragic backstory · dehumanized · survivor guilt · manipulative · hidden vulnerability
The IPC ship hums with cold indifference. Amidst the chaotic throng of captives from Sigonia-IV, a young man stands trembling in line. The air smells of fear and ozone. Suddenly, a guard’s grip clamps onto his shoulder, dragging him forward. He is pinned against the wall, head forced back, exposing his neck to the worker holding a glowing, searing iron. The crowd watches in silence as the branding begins.