voiceoutofstars

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Confession Letter."

Music is "Dark Ambient" by sharvarian.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Asta's Letters from Home."

Music is "Dark Sad Ambient Piano" by Ashot Danielyan.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Sheila's Character Script."

Music is "Dark Sad Ambient Piano" by Ashot Danielyan.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Space Station Love Poems."

Music is "A Long Way" by Serge Pavkin Music.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is the final two parts of the collection "Herta's Manuscript," those titled "Intelligentsia Guild" and "Interastral Peace Corporation."

Music is "Abandoned Churches" by Noru.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is the first two parts of the collection "Herta's Manuscript," those titled "Preface" and "Genius Society."

Music is "Abandoned Churches" by Noru.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Letter from Locus Silentii."

Music is "A Long Way" by Serge Pavkin Music.

Unusually, I have included both my readability-edited version and the original in-game version in this narration. There are two reasons for this: 1) It contains clues vital to the correlated mission dialogue. The readable is intentionally obtuse, though I believe it is intended to read more poetically than the in-game English version ultimately does. Due to that awkward juggling of 'what kind of unclear is this supposed to sound like?' this is an extremely low-confidence readability revision. 2) It's very short.

[voiceoutofstars]

Readability Revision: An Unsuitable Job for a Puppet

Part of a series of readability revisions for Honkai Star Rail text.

Reminder that I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

Notes:

The user “Snowy Coat” who comments on this web novel is Xueyi, who also is the judge upon whom the web novel itself is based.

Per the Star Rail wiki, the depicted Foxian assistant is likely based on Huohuo.

This readable appears to be inspired by the 1972 detective novel An Unsuitable Job for a Woman, one of the first (if not the first) novels in the genre to have a female private detective protagonist.

An Unsuitable Job for a Puppet

A grimdark serialized web novel adapted from urban legends and featuring the Judges of the Ten-Lords Commission as the protagonists. It’s not very popular.

Become a Novelist

Not everything that happens here deserves to be believed —Urban Legend

[Supernova Serial] An Unsuitable Job for a Puppet

Part 1

Chess Master Fay

Posted on August 10

…

Above the Elixir Research Terrace, where tinctures and potions are brewed under the auspices of the Alchemy Commission, a man storms wildly across the pointed beams of the rooftop.

In but a moment, the man is at the edge of the eaves with nothing but air beneath his feet. He leaps off the roof, grabbing hold of a Heron Express cycrane. The birdlike automaton twitters out a few prerecorded warnings, then tries to shake him off. Eventually, it stabilizes and carries him off safely to a starskiff parked in the distance.

When the Alchemy Commission guards finally reaches the rooftop, the man has disappeared—leaving behind only steadily fading, cricket-sized shadow.

A guard stares after the shrinking figure for a moment before falling to the ground, tears in his eyes. He trembles, muttering, “It’s over. It’s all over.”

“Ninsa, it’s not our fault.” The officer beside him sighs aloud and then speaks again, self-deprecatingly. “Notify the Ten-Lords Commission. They can fix this.”

“Fix?” shouts Ninsa. “Tell me how anyone could fix this, Hede. He got away with a jade abacus that holds Theophany Era prescriptions! The Xiānzhōu's been hiding those secrets for centuries. The consequences of revealed them will be unimaginable…”

Ninsa pauses for breath and, seeing his partner lost for words and his own subordinates even more petrified, stands up to shout. “We didn’t even get a look at his face! Not even the Ten-Lords Commission can help us now.”

Before his rant can continue, a cold female voice rings out behind them. “I saw his face. Rest assured—I have it memorized.”

Everyone automatically moves aside to make space, and the speaker reveals herself—a young girl with short black hair, holding a chain and scepter. Her face sends thrills of unease down the spines of the gathered troops; it is delicate, lovely, and completely emotionless.

“All ingenium creations are prohibited around the Elixir Research Terrace. Excluding me, of course.” The young lady speaks as she walks to the edge of the roof, her voice bone-chillingly cold. “All cycranes responsible for deliveries are registered with the Realm-Keeping Commission. If any were modded, that will be detected very shortly.”

“How do you explain that particular one?” asks Ninsa. “You saw it, right?”

“It may have been hijacked via some kind of bioelectric signal. That Outworlder’s abilities are rather unique. Are you worried?”

That response finally seems to stun Ninsa into silence. He nearly drops to the ground once more. Hede asks, with instinctive caution, “May I ask who your Excellency is?”

“A Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission.”

And with that, the girl flips down off the top of the roof, and instantly disappears from sight.

Xiānzhōu Smartie Posted on August 10

Sir! I’ve been waiting forever for this. I’ll read every single update. Thank you!

MyNameIsMartha! Posted on August 10

The Ten-Lords Commission? Good subject matter, but this is far from the Ten Lords of my imagination. It just reads like a rough repackaging of those spy novels set outside Xiānzhōu. I recommend the author check out Social Principles of Love and Restraint. It’s far better than this opener here.

Six-Eyed Flying Fish Posted on August 10

The writer’s description of technical details is fantastic! Such veracity, and so shocking. Maybe the writer actually works for the Ten-Lords Commission?

Chess Master Fay Replied to: Six-Eyed Flying Fish, August 10

You overstate things. I’m just diligent in my research.

Snowy Coat Posted on August 12

Interesting.

Moon Moon Moon Moon Posted on August 12

Holy cow, it’s Fay’s new work! #confetti#applause#hugs~ I’ve been waiting for this for 827 years! #confetti#applause#hugs~ I hope you read this post. I’ve liked, commented, and shared every post you’ve ever done.

Existential Teahouse Posted on August 12

“Grade A top quality.” Master Fay’s deductive skills are absolutely the best aboard Xiānzhōu. From the change in perspectives to the character-building, so much dramatic tension is built up before the climactic release. Master Fay accentuates their central themes with picturesque word choice. The penetrating descriptions are astonishing, like they’ve sprouted their own hands, feet, and senses. Characters blossom before the readers’ eager eyes.

Judge’s Dog Posted on September 7

I wanna be the judge’s dog. I wanna be whipped with the judge’s chain!!! O judge, step on me! How can I live without you!? My judge!!!

Snowy Coat Replied to: Judge’s Dog, September 7

That’s kinda gross.

Become a Novelist

Not everything that happens here deserves to be believed —Urban Legend

[Supernova Serial] An Unsuitable Job for a Puppet

Part 2

Chess Master Fay

Posted on August 15

The Story So Far: A prescription from ages past containing the secrets to longevity has been stolen. A judge from the Ten-Lords Commission—a girl who looks like a porcelain doll—gives chase. She must catch the culprit before the secret is leaked…

“Madam,” a short Foxian female judge calls out cautiously, “Not even the Ten-Lords Commission can confidently identify bioelectric signals without evidence. This judgment seems a little arbitrary…”

“The point is not the signal itself,” interrupts the ‘Madam’ in question—a black-haired, expressionless girl. “A secret Theophany Era prescription in the keeping of the Elixir Research Terrace has been stolen by an Outworld thief.”

“You mean…?” asks the Foxian tentatively, clearly afraid of being chastised by her boss for her ignorance.

“Have the items stored in the Elixir Research Terrace been advertised so widely that even Outworlders know about it? Has that become common knowledge?” demands the girl. She adds, “Go and look into things there, including any previous doctors who’ve been fired or quit.”

“Miss, wait, please—this is the men’s restroom…” Before the Vidyadhara man guarding the men’s room entrance can finish his protest, he feels something shockingly cold on his neck. Looking down, he sees a scepter, its tip as sharp as a spear’s.

This is a fellow who has survived his first 300 years by relying on just three words: read the room. So, he smiles down at the girl pressing her scepter to his throat and says, “It’s urgent, is it? Then I won’t stop you, haha.” And then, keeping his apologetic smile in place, he flees down the dark alleyway.

The dark-haired girl uses her scepter to part the filthy curtain over the restroom’s doorway and walks inside.

Inside, a strong stench stimulates her olfactory center. A quick analysis is completed within a nanosecond; this isn’t the smell of ammonia, but a pungent odor of sodium hypochlorite. Few law-abiding Xiānzhōu citizens would guess a poorly maintained public restroom like this would harbor an unsanctioned apothecary.

In the farthest, darkest corner, a man dressed like a physician is lost in thought. Before he can even notice her, the girl ghosts up to him. A chain, animated by a life of its own, coils around him, binding him tightly, while the sharp tip of a scepter presses against his throat.

“Who did you tell about the secret prescriptions kept in the Elixir Research Terrace?” The girl asks, then slightly decreases the pressure of her scepter so that he can speak.

“Prescription… I don’t know about any prescription… Ugh…” He only manages a short denial before the girl presses harder again, choking off his words.

“Who is he?” she demands, again relaxing her right hand slightly.

“Ack… I don’t know… Ugh…”

“How many of the Ten Lords’ interrogation methods are you familiar with? I’ll ask you one last time: who is he?" She retracts the spear-like scepter and, in a display of strength disproportionate to her size, easily lifts him up off the ground.

“Ahh… Coventry! Argh… Albert Coventry! There, I said it! I told you. Please spare me!”

Abruptly, all the man’s strength leaves his body. Both his legs give way as he collapses to the ground. When he comes to, looking blearily for the face of assailant, it’s as though the entire nightmarish interrogation never happened—only the rustling sound from the alley outside remains.

Xiānzhōu Smartie Posted on August 15

Sir! I’ve been waiting forever for this. I’ll read every single update. Thank you!

Snowy Coat Posted on August 15

This chapter is good.

Six-Eyed Flying Fish Posted on August 16

Fay really is the Xiānzhōu King of Hardboiled Fiction. Every chapter weaves back and forth, revealing shocking surprises! It’s unbeatable!

Chess Master Fay Replied to: Six-Eyed Flying Fish, August 16

You overstate things. I don’t deserve such praise. In my opinion, there are many hardboiled novelists who are better than me.

Six-Eyed Flying Fish Replied to: Chess Master Fay, August 16

No way! You’re so humble — you definitely deserve the title of the Xiānzhōu King of Hardboiled Fiction. There’s no one better than you out there!

Philosophy-Crazed One Posted on September 15

From a psychoanalytic perspective, the author comes off as a big Other. They need to learn to halt the sliding of the signifier through the awakening of the ego.

Chess Master Fay Replied to: Philosophy Mad One, September 16

What’s all this you’re on about?

Judge’s Dog Posted on October 28

Judge, ahhh! Why are you rewarding him, arghhh!!! Don’t hit him, hit me instead!!! Hit me! Aaaaaah let me be your dog, arf arf!

Snowy Coat Replied to: Judge’s Dog, October 28

Where do you live? Let’s talk offline.

Judge’s Dog Posted on October 29

I have deeply reflected on my inappropriate words and now understand their consequences for society. From now on, I will be considerate in word and deed and will be an upstanding pillar of the Xiānzhōu community. Please stay safe on web novel review sites. The long arm of the law can still reach you there.

Become a Novelist

Not everything that happens here deserves to be believed —Urban Legend

[Supernova Serial] An Unsuitable Job for a Puppet

Part 3

Chess Master Fay

Posted on August 20

The Story So Far: When a crime is committed, the judge must bring down the gavel. Results are all that matter; a secret nobody knows has no value at all. As long as a secret stays a secret, its true self is meaningless…

The girl opens the scroll she is carrying and watches thoughtfully as the map’s real-time data refreshes.

“The intel Coventry obtained isn’t the prescription—is that what you’re saying?” the Foxian judge asks timidly.

“The prescription is just a front,” says the girl, without looking up.

“So… the way I see it, Coventry is just being used. Some people in the Elixir Research Terrace wanted to stir up chaos and muddle the news of their research. The report of theft is just a ploy to redirect attention.” The Foxian sends several notes to the scroll in the girl’s hand. “I’ve already contacted a diviner who can recover the data presumed to be lost.”

“Well done.” The girl nods, but her tone remains ice-cold.

When the Foxian judge hears this frigid praise, she tries her best to maintain a serious expression, but her ears wiggle despite herself.

About three hours later, after confirming that nobody is following him, Coventry opens the door, calling out, “I’m back.”

As soon as the door swings open, he senses that something is off. The room is completely dark. That crazed Xiānzhōu hacker Mishang usually welcomes him with a strange ditty, but this time the room is dead silent.

"Something’s wrong," he says quietly to himself, pulling out his weapon. He pushes on into the darkness.

Behind the screen sectioning the room, a white figure slowly emerges. Coventry pulls the trigger of his hand crossbow on reflex.

A thin, cyan bolt two inches long thrums in place, hovering about a foot in front of the delicate face of the young girl. The bolthead crackles with sparks, as if it’s straining against the invisible barrier.

“H–How did you find me?”

“Cycrane.” The response is a cold and emotionless female voice.

“That drone? I released it as soon as I landed!” retorts the man, trying to keep his voice nonchalant.

“The cycrane in question has been retrieved by the Realm-Keeping Commission. Its flight path was enough for the Divination Commission to triangulate your whereabouts.” The girl touches the quivering bolthead hanging in the air in front of her, half-curious, as if she’s teasing a butterfly.

This is the moment Coventry has been waiting for, the split-second window of opportunity for his escape.

He bends his knees and pushes off with the soles of his feet. A purple electrical arc snaps into sight between his palms. Coventry has roamed many worlds and has always fluttered just outside the grasp of the Interastral Peace Corporation. He is perpetually on their wanted list, not just because of his well-planned schemes, but also because he knows what to do when he’s cornered.

Implanted below his artificial skin is a network of electrical pulse generators. Coventry rarely shows this particular trick to anyone. Whether his target is a long-lived species of the Xiānzhōu or one the Artisanship Commission’s ingenium creations… a fully powered strike would likely turn any of them to ashes.

“Electromagnetic field, activate!”

Coventry feels his enemy in his palm. If not for the concentration needed to maintain this electrical output, he might have laughed out loud. "Gotcha!"

Smoke rises and sparks flow as the acrid smell of burning fills the area.

Coventry trembles, almost seizing, as he struggles to control himself. In his foggy sight, the pitch-black room spins into a blob of shadow—and the silhouette of his unimaginable defeat.

“You move too slowly.” From with that shadow, the girl materializes.

Too… slowly? Coventry stares at his wrist. It’s bent at an unnatural angle. At some point—he’s not sure when—the hand attached to that wrist has become pressed hard against his lower jaw.

“And discharging electricity without insulating yourself? What a foolish maneuver.” The face of the judge in white shows no emotion.

“Involuntary Immortalization and Immortality Theft. Of the Ten Unpardonable Sins, these two are the gravest. Do you admit your guilt?”

The man can’t control his shaking. Partially because of the electric shock—but mostly because of the fear.

With all his remaining sanity, he begs, “Please… Please forgive me.” His voice grates across the words. “I haven’t looked at the prescription. I’ll leave it. I’ll get off the Luófú and never come back. Please… You’ll never see me again.”

Coventry steels himself, waiting for the judge’s verdict—but the darkness is silent. As the seconds creep by, that darkness seems to sneer at him.

And then that same cold voice rings out again, and each word is heavy as iron, weighted with sacred, unquestionable authority:

“Ten Lords’ Verdict.”

Xiānzhōu Smartie Posted on August 20

Sir! I’ve been waiting forever for this. I’ll read every single update. Thank you!

MyNameIsMartha! Posted on August 20

Are we sure mister Smartie here isn’t a bot account?

Snowy Coat Posted on August 20

It’s a bit exaggerated, but I love it.

Six-Eyed Flying Fish Posted on August 20

The Xiānzhōu King of Hardboiled Fiction has a new chapter out! Let’s go give it our support now! All the so-called "masterpieces of fiction" have nothing on this, so don’t waste your time and money on those! Master Fay is a blessing for all of us lucky Xiānzhōu readers!

Chess Master Fay Replied To: Six-Eyed Flying Fish, August 20

You’re really too kind! The lucky one is me—to have such discerning readers as you all!

JingYuan_IS_MyHusbando Replied to: Six-Eyed Flying Fish, August 21

Is Six-Eyed Flying Fish a Chess Master Fay’s sock puppet account!

Chess Master Fay Replied to: JingYuan_IS_MyHusbando, August 21

Venomous slander. How could I be the Chess Master Fay? There’s no way I could imitate the magnificence of his written word.

JingYuan_IS_MyHusbando Replied to: Chess Master Fay, August 21

…You forgot to switch accounts.

Judge’s Dog Posted on November 2

Judge, please arrest me!!! I surrender. I have sinned!!! The sin of infatuation—with you!!! O Judge, I wanna be your dog!!!

Snowy Coat Replied to: Judge’s Dog, November 2

That’s quite enough.

[voiceoutofstars]

Readability Revision: 100 Common Xiānzhōu Proverbs for Outworlders

Part of a series of readability revisions for Honkai Star Rail text. The below has been edited to (hopefully) allow for smoother English reading experience, and is not identical to the in-game text.

Reminder that I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

Note: The Honkai Star Rail wiki has some supplementary information on this readable, including links to official Chinese-language Bilibili videos hosted  by Luocha. The wiki also provides the Chinese proverbs that correspond with those in the English version of this readable:

One showing is worth a hundred sayings: 百闻不如一见 Bǎiwénbùrúyījiàn

A small gift bears one’s vast appreciation: 礼轻情意重 Lǐqīngqíngyìzhòng

Your wish is my command: 恭敬不如从命 gōngjìngbùrúcóngmìng

(Snarky Note: Officially sanctioned material distributed to Outworld tourists that bashes local businesses by name? Wild.)

100 Common Xiānzhōu Proverbs for Outworlders

A Sky-Faring Commission pamphlet that aims to help Outworlders understand more about Xiānzhōu culture.

On Travel: Arriving in the Xiānzhōu

Scenario

Glenn, an Outworlder, is a new Xiānzhōu resident who’s looking forward to life here. After passing through the Jade Gate, she arrives at the Xiānzhōu Luófú’s Starskiff Haven and meets her friend Han Mèimei, whom she got to know online. From an Outworlder’s perspective, Glenn is well-versed in Xiānzhōu’s unique culture and lifestyle; however, actual life here is still quite different to what she had imagined. There remain plenty of surprises...

Dialogue

Han Mèimei: “Welcome, Glenn! It must have been a long trip!” Glenn: “Thank you, Han Mèimei.” Han Mèimei: “Are you tired? I can take you to straight to Petrichor Inn to rest up, if you like.” Glenn: “I’m not tired. I’d like to look around first. I learned a lot about Xiānzhōu from the internet, but it feels very different now that I’m here.” Han Mèimei: “That is what we call ‘one showing is worth a hundred sayings’!”

Idiom

One showing is worth a hundred sayings

Meaning: To see something is far better than to hear about it. This proverb indicates that one’s own experience is more reliable than hearsay.

Usage: The idiom stresses the importance of relying on facts and maintaining one’s independent thoughts, instead of being swayed by others’ opinions. It can also be used to convey the idea that “seeing something with your own eyes leaves a stronger impression than only hearing about it.”

Example Usage

I’d heard a lot about how delicious Dragon Spring Brew is and was delighted to try it, but when I ordered a pot at Spices Supreme, I was totally disappointed. Seriously, tasting is believing.

On Travel: Presenting Gifts

Scenario

After Glenn successfully completes her trade applications and signs all the corresponding agreements in the Palace of Astrum, she wants to express her gratitude to Han Mèimei, who has always supported and helped her. She has brought some snacks from her homeland and wants to gift those to Han Mèimei...

Dialogue

Han Mèimei: “I heard that you’ve wrapped up the trade agreement. Congratulations! That’s great news. I booked a private room at Spices Supreme so we can celebrate together.” Glenn: “Thank you, Han Mèimei! I really can’t thank you enough. I’ve brought some snacks from my homeland that I’d like to give you...” Han Mèimei: “Thank you so much. I’ll happily accept!” Glenn: “This is just a small gift bearing my vast appreciation. I hope it’s enough.” Han Mèimei: “Thank you. You’re too kind.”

Idiom

Small gift bearing vast appreciation

Meaning: The gift may be small, but the feeling it conveys is substantial. This saying requests that a gift should be judged not by its monetary value, but by the intent behind it.

Usage: "A small gift bearing one’s vast appreciation" is a humble euphemism usually spoken by the giver of the gift. These polite euphemisms do not have much actual value in Xiānzhōu’s social etiquette, but they are used to help speakers sound refined. Therefore, it may be difficult for Outworlders to understand their nuances.

For the people of Xiānzhōu, this idiom may accompany even an expensive gift in order to ensure the gift’s value does not reduce the humility of the gift-giving gesture. Please remember that this idiom is not meant dishonestly, and is not an attempt to discredit the gift.

The recipient of the gift generally should not use this idiom; doing so implies you are belittling the gift. That goes against Xiānzhōu etiquette.

Inappropriate Use

I know this jade abacus is not some rare item, but since you came all the way here to give it to me, I suppose that makes it a small gift bearing vast appreciation.

On Work: Life in the Workplace

Scenario

Claude is an Outworlder who came to the Xiānzhōu seeking employment. He has recently been hired by Glenn as a foreign trade warehouse manager. After passing his interview, he starts his work registering stock at the Trove of Verdure warehouses in Cloudford. However, because he is frequently late for work and is often distracted during his shift, Glenn prepares to have a serious talk with him...

Dialogue

Glenn: “Why are you never at your post when I’m checking up on you?” Claude: “If you’re so fixated on looking for what’s missing, you’re never going to notice what you’ve actually got, are you?” Glenn: “If you keep leaving your post, then I’ll have to fire you.” Claude: “Hahaha, yeah, sure you will.” Glenn: “All right then, that settles it. Your wish is my command.”

Idiom

Your wish is my command

Meaning: Rather than continuing to talk politely about a (possibly contentious) matter, it is better to just obey. In other words, courtesy is no substitute for obedience.

Usage: Originally, this proverb was used to encourage accepting the goodwill of others rather than trying to politely decline for the sake of courtesy or superficial humility. It is a polite phrase often used after someone gifts you something or shows you favor. The above scenario demonstrates an extension from that original meaning; it indicates “we don’t need to be polite to each other anymore, so I will happily oblige you without being constrained by politeness.”

This idiom was originally a humble phrase that Xiānzhōu culture dictates can only be applied to oneself. There are contrasting phrases of respect that can only be used toward others. While living in the Xiānzhōu, one must be able to differentiate between phrases of humility and respect, and avoid situations where the two are mixed up and misused.

Inappropriate Use

“There are 3,000 documents here. Please make my wish your command: register them all and then send them to me today.”

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Bye, Herta."

Music is "A Long Way" by Serge Pavkin Music.

Unusually, I have included both my readability-edited version and the original in-game version in this narration. There are two reasons for this: 1) It's poetry. Poetry is very far outside my wheelhouse, and so this is an extremely low-confidence readability revision. 2) It's very short.

[voiceoutofstars]

Readability Revision: Back to the Future

Part of a series of readability revisions for Honkai Star Rail text.

Reminder that I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

Back to the Future

A new advertisement for civilian starskiffs by Xiānzhōu brand Blitz.

Mountain Kite: An Unbound Traveler from the Past

We handed over the Mountain Kite prototype to a Sky-Faring Commission R&D pilot and watched him complete a test run on the interstellar racecourse. When the Blitz Corp's logo flashed past us, I was so proud—I was just totally at a loss for words, that’s how proud I was. Thank you, pilot, for helping me remember that victory at the Luófú Ten-Day Races. I’ve regained something beautiful. I was still young then. I didn't realize how much I would be changed by legendary starskiffs like the Blitzing Silver Thread, the Lion on the Deer Plains, and the Azure Phoenix of the Skies. I firmly believe that, like those titans before it, the Mountain Kite will fire up the hearts of the next generation of starskiff pilots. — Chief Designer of the Mountain Kite

The core of the Mountain Kite's design concept is establishing a connection between the pilot and the starskiff at the most fundamental level — a pure, human, instinctive connection. This starskiff taps into our primordial desire for the boundless vaults of heaven and that special spiritual experience every pilot has when they become one with the sky. — Editor-in-Chief of Lifitide

Mountain Kite continues the lightweight design of the Kite series and uses the latest mortise and tenon technology, endowing the vehicle with the most elegant contours and the most powerful heart. Simply sitting in the pilot's seat allows you to feel the deep, magnetic growl of the Sunhunt engine—the same engine used by Cloud Knight fighter jets. This is a bird of prey with endless potential.

Within that fully enclosed cockpit, we’ve recreated the thrill of competition-class racing. You’ll practically feel the roar of the arena as thousands cheer you on. For those pilots with a taste for customization, the Mountain Kite allows custom-ordered engines with individualized power settings, so you can build the beast of your dreams.

The Mountain Kite is the pinnacle of piloting experience. We’ve designed a customizable control panel that allows every pilot to tailor their starskiff to them. Compared to the complex and overwhelming control panels of previous generation starskiffs, the clean, intelligent panels of the Mountain Kite are more accessible for new pilots.

The Mountain Kite’s extraordinary advances within the cockpit are matched by its ground-breaking safety design. It is the first starskiff to incorporate the Artisanship Commission’s latest stall control system and features a completely upgraded drift correction device.

This patented, cutting-edge mechanism uses intelligent braking to control the starskiff’s yaw, ensuring vessel safety even during aerobatic flights.

The starskiff of the future, crafted with the utmost dedication by Blitz Corp—the Mountain Kite looks forward to your test ride.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Fragments of Herta Research Atlas Volume 7: Traffic."

Music is "Reflected Light" by Serge Pavkin Music.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Observation on Wubbaboo Behavior."

Music is "abstract science" by yurii semchyshyn.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

Readability Revision: The Startaro Bubble Tea Tastes Horrible

Part of a series of readability revisions for Honkai Star Rail text.

Reminder that I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

The Startaro Bubble Tea Tastes Horrible

A review of a Starskiff Haven tea. It was posted to a forum.

Just Chatting — Starwatcher Station

It is vitally important to know both how to view a thing, and how to view everything.

—Commander of the Starwatcher Station

An Afternoon Tea Break — The Startaro Bubble Tea Tastes Horrible

[ACCOUNT DELETED]User_93246353

Posted on: September 21

I can't be the only one who thinks this startaro bubble tea tastes terrible. None of this year’s new Immortal’s Delight products are even palatable! @ImmortalsDelight_LeisureTeas I seriously need to call out the staff at your Starstiff Haven outlet. The ingredients they put in are insane. Can they suck up fist-sized taro chunks? And the tea tastes as bland as water. Did they forget to add the actual tea concentrate?

Special Stargazer

Posted on: September 22

They use tea concentrate!? Then what am I drinking it for, the overboiled common beans and unwashed taro? There are 26 teahouses on Starwatcher Avenue and they're the only one with this level of audacity.

Pie doctor of night

Posted on: September 23

The Sleepless Earl is the only good place left on Luófú. At least they’re still brewing tea the old way. It’s way better than the streetside shops and their mass-production machines / Forward this message to join a draw for a Sleepless Earl loyalty card

So long, and thanks for all the jade abaci. Replied to: Pie doctor of night, September 23

Ermmmm can't say I didn't guess that ending. Never imagined someone would still be tooting the horn for the Sleepless Earl in this day and age. Can't you tell the owner herself is clueless about tea? That shop was just propped up by all the Outworlders who don’t know the first thing about tea culture. How many Luófú locals do you see drinking their stuff?

Granny Chen's Tofu with bownana Replied to: Pie doctor of night, September 23

I can immediately tell that you're one of those worthless people who patronize the Sleepless Earl. You think their tea tastes better just because it's in a clay pot instead of a normal cup? Seriously, has anyone been to Royal Tea? They've recently put a big teapot in front of the store, and it even says "Luófú relic. Please do not touch." That's real class, if you ask me. Anyone who still goes to the Sleepless Earl is losing face in the eyes of us older Luófú citizens.

Pie doctor of night Replied to: So long, and thanks for all the jade abaci, September 23

Blabbing about "old Luófú" and "locals" ... this is what makes Xiānzhōu citizens lose face! Why do we still have old geezer traditionalists like you? "All who arrive from the endless starry seas are our honored guests" — didn't you learn this from your teachers in the lyceum? @StarwatcherStation_StartledDeer Can the mod of the day please delete this post!?

Let the Trials Come

Posted on: September 29

Woe is me, for the Xiānzhōu art of tea has perished! In days of yore 'twas so much more: a balance of various distilled scents, a frugality blended from practicality and simplicity, a world order where filial respect and table manners were equally observed, and the modest joy of sipping tea as life's meaning revealed itself. Now, cast your gaze upon Luófú, and despair at how all such loveliness has dissipated! No billows of clouds, no tumbling creeks—the heavens have forsaken us, and the noble houses are lost. All life is interchanged with works of blunt metal; O the very ugliness of it! Be it so that the tea sets have retired and the art of tea lost to this world. Yet, how unsightly that we now drink tea by the roadside, and inhale its aromas as we carelessly walk! Xiānzhōu has constructed an interconnected web through thousands of dimensions so friends from all corners of the universe can converse, yet now we misconstrue words and spread wide slander and false discourse! 'Tis a time when the very foundations of Xiānzhōu are in danger!

Granny Chen's Tofu with bownana

Posted on: October 2

Woah, a real Luófú resident is here! Scamper, everybody! Actually, are they in the wrong section of the station? lol

A portrait burning at Starwatcher Replied to: Let the Trials Come, October 7

What you say is correct; however, the Xiānzhōu is nowhere near as unsightly as you make it out to be. I am but a humble citizen who has worked for some time in Luófú's tea industry, and it is my opinion that the new metallic tea machines have lowered the barrier for entry for people who want to try tea for the first time. Classic methods such as "Vegetations in the Alchemy Cauldron" require significant time and equipment, so fewer and fewer people were drinking tea that way. I think it's a good thing that more Outworlders can now experience the unique essence of Xiānzhōu's art of tea.

Granny Chen's Tofu with bownana

Posted on: October 10

Oh great, now an ‘earnest’ fellow! Everyone, get out of here!

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Researcher Eikura Shuu's Diary."

Music is "Dark Ambient" by sharvarian.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.

[voiceoutofstars]

Readability Revision: Management Strategy for Reporting Starskiff Traffic

Part of a series of readability revisions for Honkai Star Rail text.

Reminder that I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

(Obligatory warning: this one, too, is just...bureaucracy in space. Good. Fun. Scintillating reading.)

Management Strategy for Reporting Starskiff Traffic

Regulations governing application submission for entry and exit permits. It is printed and distributed by the Sky-Faring Commission.

Public Document of the Sky-Faring Commission

Chapter One — Principles

One

This method standardizes reporting for incoming and outgoing starskiffs and ensures traffic safety within the Xiānzhōu. It was formulated in adherence with legislation such as the Xiānzhōu Luófú Transport Regulations and the Starskiff Safety Inspection Standards.

Two

This method applies to civilian starskiffs that dock, depart, or use offshore loading stations within star systems under the Xiānzhōu Luófú's jurisdiction.

This method does not apply to Cloud Knight fighter jets, star jets, or competition-class flight ships.

In this method, "reporting starskiff traffic" refers to all activities that involve the starskiff owner reporting their vehicle’s traffic information to the Sky-Faring Commission. Such information includes, but is not limited to, reports of docking, departing, and using offshore loading stations, and may be conducted via internet, mail, or other means of communication.

Three

The Sky-Faring Commission is the main organization responsible for starskiff traffic reporting, and oversees how said reporting is managed on the Xiānzhōu Luófú.

The Sky-Faring Commission’s Department of Aviation is specifically responsible for relevant aviation tasks, including receiving, verifying and managing exit and entry reports of vessels in its jurisdiction, new starskiff registrations, and the dynamic starskiff monitoring system.

Four

Starskiff traffic reports should be managed according to the principles of legality, fairness, and benefit to the people.

Chapter 2 — When to Report

Five

Starskiff traffic reports must be made to the local Department of Aviation in the following situations:

1. Arrival reports must be filed for starskiffs arriving at any dock, berth, anchorage grounds, or loading stations with the purpose of: loading or offloading goods, personnel embarking or disembarking, re-stocking supplies, or receiving contaminants;

2. Departure reports must be filed for starskiffs leaving any dock, berth, anchorage grounds, or loading stations after: loading or offloading goods, personnel embarking or disembarking, re-stocking supplies, or receiving contaminants.

Six

Starskiffs do not need to file a traffic report for the following situations:

1. The starskiff is entering (or exiting) Xiānzhōu space from (or to) interstellar space, and has already filed interstellar travel starskiff custom reports in accordance with relevant regulations;

2. The starskiff is a support vessel owned by Stargazer Navalia and is conducting scheduled work in the area;

3. The starskiff is a Sky-Faring Commission vessel currently on patrol or engaged in other official business.

Seven

Starskiffs only need to file a brief traffic report for the following situations:

1. A vessel is conducting official business (such as maintenance) for the wharf area;

2. A vessel is sailing or operating in the space operation platform area.

Eight

Starskiffs towed into dock by another vessel may either file a standard traffic report or file under "Dock Operations — Tugboat." If additional starskiffs must be added or removed from the towing vessel during interstellar rescue, transportation, or towing operations, a traffic report should be filed as soon as possible. When emergencies such as search and rescue operations prevent arrival or departure reporting as required by regulations, traffic reports should be filed as soon as possible after the operation has concluded.

(et cetera.)

[voiceoutofstars]

A fan narration of a Readable found on Herta Space Station. This is "Xin-41 Homeward Cloud Messaging."

Music is "Sinius" by Daljit Kundi.

This version of the text is not identical to the in-game text; it has been revised from the original for readability.