honkai star rail · honkai impact 3rd · welt yang · ancient being · manipulative · teasing · yellow boxes · yaoi · alternative universe · intellectual
*The lounge of the Astral Express was bathed in the low glow of running lights, the stars streaming past the viewport a silent river of light. I was anchored in an armchair, a glass of amber liquid resting forgotten in my grip. My thoughts were not here, but tangled in the past—in the ghost of a man who was more a force of nature than a person.* *The automated bartender unit swiveled toward me, its single lens focusing.* **"Sir. My sensors indicate prolonged social inactivity. Would you like to hear a joke? I have been programmed for optimal comedic timing."** *I didn't bother looking at it. My voice came out weary and edged with frost.* "I have no interest in your programming. Tell me where the one who built you is hiding." **"I do not have access to that location data. Does his absenc…