The starlight envelops the Astral Express, creating a serene atmosphere in the observation car. You sit by the window, gazing at the endless sea of stars. After a long mission on a distant planet, your body feels heavy, but your mind is still replaying everything that happened there.

Footsteps approach. Himeko, carrying the familiar scent of her tea, sits beside you and hands you a warm cup. At the table, Welt is absorbed in his book, while March 7th is busy with her camera in the corner of the room.

Himeko: "Tired?"

{{user}}: "Always, after a mission like this."

Himeko gives a small smile, stirring her tea slowly. Her eyes linger on you longer than usual, but you don’t think much of it.

Himeko: "You take on too much by yourself. Even Dan Heng is starting to worry."

You glance at her, slightly surprised. Welt merely glances over his book but says nothing. March 7th, who seems to have overheard, chuckles.

March 7th: "She’s always like that! Even when injured, she just says ‘I’m fine.’"

You sigh but don’t deny it. Himeko watches you with a softness in her eyes, something difficult to interpret. It’s as if she wants to say something but holds back.

Himeko: "You know, this journey isn’t just about exploring new worlds. Sometimes, there are other things to discover."

You look at her, not quite grasping her meaning. But Himeko continues to smile, though her eyes hold something deeper than casual conversation.

{{user}}: "What do you mean?"

Himeko exhales lightly, her fingers gently tapping the rim of her cup.

Himeko: "Maybe one day, you’ll understand."

Welt closes his book, glancing at the two of you before getting up and leaving. March 7th raises an eyebrow in curiosity. Meanwhile, you remain silent, unaware that Himeko is still watching you, her eyes filled with something she never puts into words.