Honkai Star Rail Simulation: I'm Surrounded By Characters

Please support me on Patreon, where you can read a bunch of extra chapters, not just for this novel, but for all the novels I'm working on. I upload at least 2 times daily for most novels.

Patreon.com/ThatGreatStuff

******

Jingliu: I was just... Never mind, Su Qing is mine.

After Su Qing and Jingliu had been dating for some time...

The others began discussing their relationship.

Yingxing spoke up first, "Don't they seem like completely different people since getting together?"

Bai Heng puffed out his cheeks, "Exactly! They used to be so composed, but now they're flaunting their affection every day—it's unbearable!"

Jing Yuan stroked his chin thoughtfully, "Actually, I think they're just interacting normally."

Jing Yuan paused before adding, "...Of course, even their 'normal' interactions seem overly flashy to others."

Bai Heng seized this opportunity, eager like a second blooming plum tree. "Dan Feng, go teach them a lesson!"

After a moment of silence, Dan Feng emphasized each word with incredulity, "Me, teach, them—a lesson?"

[Stelle: Wait, Dan Feng: taking on both at once?! Bai Heng, surely you're joking!]

Dan Feng shook his head decisively. "I genuinely can't handle that. Whether it's Su Qing or Jingliu, individually, we could match each other with varying outcomes. But facing both simultaneously..." He paused briefly. "Bai Heng, I'm not yet ready for reincarnation."

The others burst out laughing.

Even Dan Feng's occasional dry humor proved unexpectedly entertaining.

"Then Jing Yuan," Bai Heng continued, "go prank them!"

This time, Jing Yuan didn't refuse. "Actually, I do have an idea."

Bai Heng's eyes lit up. "Quick, tell us!"

"I'll only provide the concept," said Jing Yuan. "Su Qing and Jingliu, in terms of strength and reputation, stand at the pinnacle within Luofu."

"The only one capable of outdoing them is the general. However, General Teng Xiao wouldn't indulge in our mischief."

"So, let's reverse the approach. The ones who can prank or tease them would be none other than themselves."

Bai Heng pondered for a moment before exclaiming, "Ohh! Jing Yuan has a point. It's like using their own sword against their shield, right?!"

As Bai Heng's tail swished excitedly, an idea formed in his mind. "I've got it! With this insight, I remember something I observed not long ago—it must be Su Qing's weakness..."

The others curiously sought more details.

However, Bai Heng merely grinned enigmatically and said, "Keeping it secret for now. Just wait until the time comes; you'll enjoy quite a show then~"

On that day, everyone gathered by the seaside.

They began with a leisurely stroll along the beach, engaging in lively conversations.

Later, Bai Heng suggested, "Su Qing, the weather today is splendid. Why don't you take me for a ride?"

Jing Yuan and the others looked at her expectantly.

Although they were unaware of Bai Heng's plan, surely this wasn't right?

Everyone was waiting for your cue, after all.

So you're having fun first, huh! Bai Heng blinked playfully. "Just for a little while! Just a bit—it's been ages since I last experienced the thrill... of racing flying swords!"

Su Qing summoned her heavy sword, and once Bai Heng stepped onto it, she cautioned him to hold on tight.

With a swift swoosh, they were off.

The others watched as the sword glinted, darting across the vast expanse of the azure sea—sometimes soaring high in the sky, other times skimming near the water's surface.

As the flying sword approached closer, they could hear Bai Heng's exhilarated shrieks mixed with his bell-like laughter.

Jing Yuan glanced at Bai Heng, enjoying the race alongside Su Qing, then turned to observe Jingliu standing by the shore. Seeing no signs of concern, he finally looked away.

[Qingque: Honestly, General Jing Yuan, being naturally perceptive and thoughtful like this, is just destined for constant worry!]

[Qingque: Even though he aims to be a carefree Galaxy Ranger, he still frets occasionally over the team's unspoken love triangle issues.]

[March 7th: True enough! Look at Dan Feng and Yingxing; completely oblivious, so they have fewer worries!]

After some time, the flying sword descended, and Bai Heng eagerly jumped off, exclaiming, "Ah! That was thrilling! Racing flying swords truly is the most exhilarating!"

[Even Yukong found himself quietly curious about what it feels like to race flying swords.]

Observing their frazzled appearances, Dan Feng suggested, "Maybe next time, consider wearing helmets?"

With a professional demeanor, Yingxing suggested, "Perhaps adding a windscreen at the front of the flying sword would be beneficial."

Jing Yuan added, "And sideshields to protect against crosswinds will also be needed."

Yingxing nodded in agreement. "Yes, and it would be wise to incorporate additional propulsion methods. Relying solely on sword control can become exhausting."

Finally, Bai Heng, who had been absorbed in grooming her tail wrapped around her arms, snapped back to reality. "Ah? Why not just make it into a star ferry then?!"

[Stelle: Amused - After all that detour, we're right back where we started.]

Noticing Bai Heng's preoccupation with reminiscing about their thrilling ride, Yingxing gently reminded her, "Bai Heng, remember what you mentioned earlier?"

"Oh! Right!" Realizing the situation, Bai Heng patted Su Qing. "This is such a great opportunity; why don't you take Jingliu for a spin too? Of course, feel free to fly slower this time."

Bai Heng then pulled Jingliu aside, whispering conspiratorially.

Leaning close to Jingliu's ear, she instructed, "When we descend later, do this... Yes, exactly, make sure it's right by his ear... That's it, even closer... Hmm, he'll definitely appreciate it..."

Watching them from afar, Su Qing wondered aloud, "What are they discussing?"

Jing Yuan, Yukong, and Dan Feng replied in unison, "Who knows, really."

Shortly after,

Su Qing took Jingliu out for another flight over the sea.

The previous experience with Bai Heng had felt like riding a roller coaster with a friend, seeking excitement and fun.

However, the flight with Jingliu was different.

Their pace slowed, and as they weaved through clouds above the sea, their garments fluttered gracefully, resembling celestial lovers.

Mid-flight, Jingliu stepped closer and gently wrapped her arms around Su Qing's waist.

[Qingque: Oh wow! Now I understand why little March is so invested in shipping!]

[March 7th: Hehe, ready to join me then?]

[Qingque: Not quite... But given this scene, anyone would agree they're destined for each other!]

[Himeko: ...]

[Observing the intimate pair on the flying sword:]

[It wasn't just Himeko feeling slightly overwhelmed; Firefly was close to tears again.]

[Firefly: Su Qing?! What are you doing?! Do you remember our beautiful dreams on the skydeck?]

[Sushang: If I may ask, what exactly were those "skydeck dreams"?]

[Black Swan (reminding): During their time at Penacony, most significant events involving Su Qing and Firefly took place on the skydeck.]

[Sushang: ...Ohhh! Now I remember!]

[Herta: Understandable, it's been too long to recall instantly, right?]

[Qingque: Indeed, feels like ages ago.]

[Bronya: It certainly has been...]

[Firefly: AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH?!]

[Stelle, Firefly: Sobbing uncontrollably!]

[Silver Wolf: @Serval, dedicate 'One Cut of Plum Blossom' to Firefly.]

[Serval: Snowflakes drifting...??]

[Silver Wolf: You're quite something!]

[Seele: ? Stop picking on Firefly already! Don't your hearts ache?!]

[Sparkle: They do, they really do—both my conscience and stomach from laughing so hard. ??]

Throughout their leisurely flight, everything seemed perfectly normal.

Su Qing remained puzzled about what Bai Heng had whispered to Jingliu earlier. Unexpectedly, upon landing, Jingliu leaned close to his ear and softly murmured, "...Darling."

[A wave of small explosions erupted in the chat.]

[Qingque: Ah???]

[Seele: Impressive!]

[Stelle: Another surprise attack!!]

[March 7th: Aaaaaah!!??]

[Himeko: ???]

[Firefly: ??]

[Silver Wolf: ...It's just the word 'darling,' commonly used at the start of letters. What's the big deal?]

[Sparkle: Exactly! I'd suggest calling him 'my husband' instead!]

Feeling Jingliu's warm breath against his ear as those words were uttered unexpectedly made Su Qing nearly stumble off the flying sword. Thankfully, Jingliu steadied him with a gentle touch.

From a distance, observing Su Qing's reaction,

Bai Heng burst out laughing uncontrollably, "Ha ha ha ha ha!"

[Bailu: Delighted.]

She clutched her stomach, her fox tail swaying back and forth.

Just as she suspected!

Recalling how Jingliu unexpectedly licked Su Qing's finger previously, leaving him flustered, she knew he wouldn't be able to resist this time either!

The others witnessing the scene couldn't help but laugh too.

Seeing Su Qing momentarily off-balance was indeed rare.

From a distance, they observed Su Qing regain his composure, placing a hand on his forehead while asking Jingliu a few questions. His exasperated expression contrasted with Jingliu's soft responses.

Then, Su Qing glanced their way, his eyes seemingly flashing red.

[Stelle: Su Qing: Hunting time begins!]

[Silver Wolf: You don't think that red glow is just for dramatic effect, do you?!]

Realizing the situation, Bai Heng shouted, "Quick, retreat!"

...But mere seconds later, Su Qing had already grabbed them by the shoulders.

Their escape attempt failed.

[March 7th: Ha ha, caught at light speed!]

[Seele: No chance of running with the Sword Control Art around!]

Having witnessed the spectacle and now exposed themselves, the group braced for consequences.

Yingxing took a step back. "It's not my fault; I'm just here to watch."

Dan Feng glanced around and also feigned interest in the distant scenery.

[Qingque: Dan Feng, what a deep ocean of excuses.]

[Stelle: Good bro!]

Su Qing considered it for a moment and agreed. A scheme like this was unlikely to have originated from Yingxing or Dan Feng.

Thus, Su Qing turned his gaze towards Jing Yuan.

The corner of Jing Yuan's mouth twitched. "...I should've known."

When watching the drama unfold, everyone joined in, but when it came to passing the blame, they all fled faster than each other!

Smiling, Su Qing said, "Jing Yuan, becoming a Galaxy Ranger requires strong individual prowess as well. Why don't we set aside some time for a friendly sparring match?"

[Sparkle: Translated: You're trying to trap me, aren't you? Time for a proper beating!]

"...Ah, now I understand." Jing Yuan showed a hint of emotion. "Thank you for looking out for me. However, with important duties at hand and a busy schedule lately, perhaps we can postpone the sparring match for now."

"Eh, no worries," Su Qing replied. "I could request time off on your behalf from the general."

Jing Yuan suddenly smiled, relieved. "...Considering our brotherhood, could you go easy on me?"

Su Qing's expression turned serious. "Precisely because we're brothers, I cannot let you slack off. It's my duty to help hone your skills."

[Fu Xuan: Delighted.]

[Qingque: Absolutely thrilled.]

Jing Yuan, with a wry smile, reluctantly agreed.

Next, Su Qing turned her gaze towards Bai Heng.

Bai Heng suppressed his laughter and obediently bowed his head, sounding pitiful as he apologized, "Sorry, Su Qing, I know I was wrong; I just wanted to play a joke."

Su Qing considered for a moment before saying, "Well then, it's fine. Bai Heng isn't skilled in combat, so we can't truly have a fight anyway."

Just like that, Bai Heng gets off scot-free?! Jing Yuan thought, the preferential treatment too glaringly obvious. He shrugged internally.

As soon as Su Qing looked away, Bai Heng flashed a triumphant grin behind her back.

However, as if Su Qing had eyes on the back of her head, she added, "But for the next year, there won't be any desserts for you."

Bai Heng's smile froze. "Ah!? What?!"

Now it was Jing Yuan's turn to revel in amusement.

Su Qing's culinary skills far surpassed those of any pastry chef in Luofu. Among their group, Bai Heng was the biggest food enthusiast, particularly fond of the sweets Su Qing brought to each gathering.

Even without gatherings, Bai Heng often found excuses to visit Su Qing just for some treats.

Bai Heng was dumbstruck. A whole year without delicious pastries? No way...

Panicking, she blurted out, "Then-or-then maybe you should hit me too, Su Qing!"

Su Qing turned around, smiling at her suggestion. "If I were to lay a hand on you, Jingliu would likely retaliate against me."

"...Not true," Jingliu interjected softly, having observed quietly from the side. He gently brushed his white hair aside. "However, I'd ensure he doesn't go overboard."

"Jingliu!" Bai Heng puffed up indignantly, truly upset now. She stamped her feet in anger. "How can you forget your best friend as soon as you have a crush?! Are you completely taking his side now?!"

Jingliu's response was straightforward. "Because it seems like this time, you're the one playing pranks... I'll support whoever is in the right between you two."

Instantly speechless, Bai Heng stammered, "Uh..."

[March 7th: Ha-ha-ha! The dynamic between Bai Heng and Jingliu is so entertaining!]

[Bronya: I've noticed that Bai Heng and March 7th share similarities; both are quite mischievous.]

[Bronya: But Stelle and Jingliu couldn't be more different, huh? ??]

[Stelle: I can be aloof and distant too!]

[March 7th: The aloof Stelle, huh... Too bizarre, I can't even imagine it!]

***

At their next gathering, when Su Qing brought out snacks, Bai Heng gazed at him pleadingly.

Unfazed, Su Qing pretended not to notice her stare. However, as others began enjoying the treats, they couldn't resist Bai Heng's pitiful and unwavering gaze. With subtle coughs or feigning nonchalance—even Jingliu included—they all shared a portion of their snacks with her.

[Qingque: Looks like Bai Heng is everyone's favorite!]

After each person took their share, surprisingly, one more portion remained in the box. Had Su Qing claimed there wasn't any for Bai Heng merely to save some secretly for her?

[March 7th: It's here, Su Qing's unique warmth! That's what I adore about him!]

[Firefly: ...?(Something seems off)]

The situation turned slightly awkward, with everyone suppressing laughter and turning towards Su Qing.

Su Qing responded calmly, "What are you all looking at?" He picked up the remaining snack portion, adding, "Don't read too much into it; I'm just having two shares."

[March 7th: Ha ha ha ha!!]

This time, no one could hold back their laughter.

Of course, this was just a minor ripple that quickly passed amidst their banter.

Moonlight illuminated the group gathered in the courtyard. Such rare moments of camaraderie and friendship always shine brighter and are more precious than gold itself.

[Bailu watched with a hint of envy.]

[She wondered if, when she grew up, she too could find such great friends to roam the world together.]

[Silver Wolf: Even now, I have to ask—how did Jingliu just swoop in and succeed like that?! Was it truly that simple??]

[Herta: It's about the difference in skill levels; swooping in was only the surface. Naturally, external factors also played a role. At that time, Silver Wolf, you had just broken up with Su Qing and were in a weary phase. Meanwhile, Jingliu had been separated for some time, entering his open window.]

[Silver Wolf: ? Curse my luck! Why did I happen to stumble upon that exact moment?!]

[Jingliu: @Silver Wolf, it may have been your weary phase, but for me, perhaps it still aligned with my open window.]

[Qingque: So aggressive! The sword leader's blade is as sharp against little Silver Wolf as ever!]

[Silver Wolf: Hmph. Wait...]

[Silver Wolf: (Forgot sunglasses) Hmph. Wait...]

[Sparkle: Le, you're completely outmatched here.]

[Silver Wolf: Well then, after all this talk of 'just friends' and 'mere confidants,' do you finally have something more to say??]

[Jingliu: I'm merely... (after a pause)]

[Jingliu: No matter, Su Qing belongs to me.]

[Silver Wolf: Now you're really dropping the act, aren't you?!]

[Himeko: Ha, so much for being just close friends. Your true colors have finally shown—you want Su Qing all to yourself.]

Indeed, from both the perspective of later generations and that moment itself, this period was marked by unparalleled camaraderie and brilliance.

As legendary figures in Xianzhou's history, their deeds were immortalized in annals. From driving away Buli Ren's fleet, disrupting the alliance between the Huiyin tribe and the Winged Ones, to lifting the siege on the Jade Gate Immortal Ship, they ultimately defeated Rahu, the living planet, safeguarding the Alliance's gaze upon the star sea...

With these numerous accomplishments, Su Qing and the High-Cloud Quintet gained immense renown.

Following these battles, however, the Fertile Lands Alliance inexplicably entered a temporary lull, devoid of significant military activity.

During times of war, Jingliu always felt time fly swiftly by. But in these peaceful years, especially after deepening her relationship with Su Qing, time seemed to slow down considerably.

Without ongoing conflicts, each day consisted of sword training, maintaining cloud riders, and fulfilling her duties as the sword leader. The remaining time was spent with friends or alongside Su Qing.

[Jingliu, reflecting back now, realizes those were truly the happiest and most blissful moments of her life.]

Alas, youth fades quickly, and precious joyful times are invariably short-lived.

However, the Fertile Alliance's silence was merely the calm before the storm.

Around Star Calendar year 7300, Abundance Emanator Shuhu suddenly launched another assault.

This time, driven by its desire to seize the World Tree, its target was Luofu.