Chapter 25: Game Completed? The Journey Has Only Just Begun!
In Little Gui Zi's live stream:
"Alright everyone, let's pause our Simulated Universe exploration for now."
"While the rewards are tempting, these battles are quite demanding. It's wiser to strengthen our characters and gear before tackling them again."
"What truly captivates Little Gui Zi at this moment is—"
"Now that the space station crisis has been resolved and our protagonist has boarded the Astral Express, does this signify the game's conclusion?"
The night deepened.
Yet Guinaifen remained completely engrossed in the game, unable to look away!
Within the live stream,
over 20,000 viewers were following her broadcast, eagerly anticipating the game's narrative!
"3 A.M. with 20,000 viewers? Little Gui, you're truly becoming a top-tier streamer!"
"I'm here to witness the Trailblazer's ongoing journey."
"Tonight, I must see Stelle board that train before I even consider sleeping!"
"Preparing for the grand finale and commemoration."
Many viewers echoed Guinaifen's sentiments.
The game's narrative was set against the backdrop of the legion invasion that preceded the space station era.
Having defeated the Doomsday Beast, the protagonist received the anticipated invitation to join the Astral Express.
What followed were events mirroring the current reality.
It seemed unlikely that new content would extend beyond this point.
All that seemingly remained were the space station's side quests and assisting Herta with the Simulated Universe tests.
Within the expansive space station,
a melancholic yet beautiful melody resonated softly.
Not only Little Gui, but even the viewers in the live stream felt deeply immersed, as if they were physically present.
The sensation of facing an uncertain future—a mix of bewilderment and anticipation—instantly overwhelmed her.
"Even when retracing familiar paths, new discoveries always await. That is the essence of Trailblazing."
Responding to the Trailblazer's inquiry, Himeko shared openly, her tone carrying the patience and warmth of a caring mentor:
"In the past, we have docked at numerous worlds, and in the future, we will continue this journey—the galaxy holds countless unexplored destinations."
"The vast expanse of stars is not merely my personal dream but also the train's inherent aspiration. I long to explore uncharted worlds, while the train yearns to reclaim its lost routes."
Concluding her conversation with Himeko,
Guinaifen selected "I want to board the train."
Instantly, the background music swelled!
["The way"]
["To celebrate"]
["I'll be waiting"]
["Till we make it..."]
Guinaifen, usually so vibrant, fell silent, completely absorbed by the indescribable atmosphere. It felt as though her very soul was embarking on this journey alongside the train, bidding farewell to all at the space station under the watchful eyes of Asta and Arlan, venturing into the boundless cosmos.
["Oh~"]
["We will see"]
["Come with me, take the journey"]
"This background music is absolutely heavenly!"
"Holy cow, I'm downloading Star Rail right now!"
"I'm crying! I wish I could be The Nameless!"
"If not for the burdens of life, who wouldn't desire to be a free-spirited traveler?"
"My dreams can only find expression through this game."
Even Guinaifen's eyes glistened slightly.
Of course, it wasn't due to drowsiness!
Instead, she was reflecting on her childhood spent wandering from place to place.
Dependent on the kindness of others, unsure of even basic necessities.
Thankfully, upon arriving at Xianzhou, her circumstances gradually improved.
While not yet famous or wealthy, she could acknowledge a degree of modest success.
Guinaifen, typically so lively and enthusiastic, suddenly experienced a wave of melancholy and introspection.
All blame rested on that evocative background music!
It instantly evoked memories from her past.
Suddenly, the gloom lifted from Guinaifen's face, replaced by surprise and delight!
"Thank you to [Cat Whisperer 8190] for the generous Listening Storm gift! You're too kind, boss!"
"[Quick, check out this new thing on the train]
...
"No problem at all, boss, I'll investigate immediately!"
On the train, a pair of large, crystal-clear eyes gazed intently at the Trailblazer.
"Hey! Hey, you!" someone called out.
Wearing a tall red hat, with two long ears drooping down on either side, the figure was undeniably distinctive.
Guinaifen quickly explained, "Boss, this isn't just any ordinary creature!"
"It's a mystical being that appears during each warp jump."
"The chances of obtaining gold or purple items are significantly influenced by it!"
"Little Gui Zi suspects this little fellow is unique to the train."
As anticipated, the subsequent introduction confirmed Guinaifen's suspicion.
"I am Pom-Pom, the conductor here. Should you encounter any issues while onboard, please do not hesitate to approach me."
"It's actually the conductor? No wonder it stands guard at the door during warp jumps."
"What a formidable mascot!"
"I had no idea the Astral Express was this vast and luxurious!"
"Well then, we've officially boarded the train!"
Driven by curiosity, Guinaifen began exploring the train.
Apart from the outer Parlor Car, there were also passenger cabins within. However, currently only Dan Heng's room, serving as the information archive, and March 7th's cabin were accessible.
Dan Heng's space featured a simple makeshift bedroll on the floor.
In stark contrast, March 7th's cabin felt considerably more inviting with its photo wall, sofa, computer desk, plush toys, soft bed... all the comforts one could desire.
Their individual styles presented a striking contrast!
Guinaifen meticulously explored March 7th's room, not overlooking a single detail, exclaiming she could happily reside there for an entire year!
Suddenly, the conductor's voice echoed throughout the train.
"Testing—testing—"
"Ladies and gentlemen, please pay attention. All passengers, please pay attention."
"The train is about to initiate a warp jump. Kindly gather promptly at the main hall."
Guinaifen was taken aback. A few seconds later, her face illuminated with ecstatic joy!
"Everyone, did you hear that?!"
"This game isn't over yet! We're going to experience another warp jump!"
"We might even reach the next destination!"
"Forget 'completing' the game—it feels like our journey has only just begun!"