Unveiling the Honkai Star Rail: The Scandalous Secrets of High Cloud Quintet

Highlights

In the latest update of Honkai: Star Rail Version 1.4, new information emerges regarding the High Cloud Quintet's rift, finally shedding light on the real cause. It is now clear that Imbibitor Lunae utilized the Transmutation Arcanum on Baiheng instead of Yingxing.

Several fans criticized the High Cloud Quintet's story direction, claiming that the writer altered the plot and deliberately angered female fans by fridging Baiheng.

Despite some plot gaps, the Companion Mission adequately clarifies the High Cloud Quintet's fate. It unveils Imbibitor Lunae's desperate endeavor to resurrect Baiheng, along with the significance of Yingxing's emotions towards her. It is crucial to await an official statement from the developer before making any definitive judgments.

Ever since the Xianzhou Luofu storyline began in Honkai: Star Rail, a considerable number of fans have grown captivated by the lore surrounding the High Cloud Quintet. Comprised of Jing Yuan, Yingxing (now known as Blade), Imbibitor Lunae (also referred to as Dan Feng/Dan Heng), Jingliu, and the late Baiheng, this influential group has garnered significant attention. Particularly intriguing is Blade's apparent resentment towards Dan Heng and their shared history before being exiled from Xianzhou.

The immortality of Blade and the transgressions committed by Imbibitor Lunae have fueled numerous theories. Many believed that Lunae attempted to resurrect Blade, suggesting an intimate connection between the two. In the world of Honkai: Star Rail, fans have offered varying interpretations of this bond, ranging from close friendship to a potentially romantic relationship. However, with the recent unveiling of Honkai: Star Rail Version 1.4, players were finally given the truth behind the falling out between these characters and the eventual demise of the High Cloud Quintet.

The High Cloud Quintet Story Backlash

Honkai: Star Rail Version 1.4 introduced the Jingliu Companion Mission "Clouds Leave No Trace," marking the conclusion of the High Cloud Quintet storyline. This mission provided essential information not only about Jingliu's story, but also shed light on Blade/Yingxing and Imbibitor Lunae's past. The most noteworthy revelation was Imbibitor Lunae's crime, which defied fan expectations.

Contrary to popular belief, Imbibitor Lunae did not use the Transmutation Arcanum to revive a dying Yingxing. Instead, he utilized it on Baiheng, who lost his life during the battle of Shuhu, an Abundance Emanator. Yingxing assisted by offering Shuhu's flesh. Unfortunately, their efforts were in vain. Imbibitor Lunae was apprehended for his offenses against the Xianzhou Luofu and subjected to a hatching rebirth, resulting in his reincarnation as Dan Heng and subsequent banishment. On the other hand, Yingxing underwent a transformation into an "immortal abomination."

Many players of Honkai: Star Rail expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the High Cloud Quintet's story. Accusations were made against a male HoYoverse writer, who was believed to have intentionally altered the story of Imbibitor Lunae and Blade and sidelined Baiheng, in an attempt to provoke the female fanbase. These claims were supported by an alleged misogynistic post by the writer, which attracted attention from fans. However, there were also fans who believed that the issue of alleged misogyny should be treated separately.

Previously, Honkai: Star Rail had never definitively stated that Imbibitor Lunae attempted to revive Blade. This was merely a theory driven by the information available to players before the release of Version 1.4. Frustrations may have arisen from the expectation that the characters were involved in a romantic relationship. While it is true that LGBTQ+ players could find resonance in certain characters of Honkai: Star Rail, including Imbibitor Lunae and Blade, no confirmation had been given.

Many Honkai: Star Rail fans expressed confusion regarding the backlash, but they pointed out that Jingliu's Companion Mission offered sufficient explanation about the fate of the High Cloud Quintet, particularly Baiheng's tragic ending. Although there were a few plot holes, the story successfully addressed several important questions. It was clear that Imbibitor Lunae desired to revive someone dear to him and was willing to jeopardize his position as the High Elder of the Vidyadhara and break Xianzhou laws to achieve this. The individual in question was Baiheng, who was a close friend to them. Additionally, it was hinted that Yingxing may have had romantic feelings for her, as evidenced by him crafting a flask specifically for her.

It can be incredibly frustrating when a game's story does not follow the desired direction. However, it is important to remember that not all theories will necessarily become official events. Games like Honkai: Star Rail have a complex lore that is still unfolding, making it prone to misinterpretation at times. While engaging in speculation is perfectly fine, it is best to wait for the developers to officially announce their intentions to avoid potential disappointment.

Honkai: Star Rail is now available on Mobile, PC, and PS5.