Before the Storm Settles

 See what (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) and Xiao'Guang are up to

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(‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) seems to be talking with Xiao'Guang, let's hurry over and check it out.

Suibian Temple

(Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍))

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise, you're finally here!Wise, you're finally here!Text for Wise / Belle, you arrived just in time.Belle, you arrived just in time.Text for Belle‍)

What's up? What are you guys talking about?

Ye Shunguang: Nothing much, I'm just a bit worried about my brother...

Don't overthink it.

Maybe he's got something to take care of.

Ye Shunguang: I hope that's all...

Ye Shunguang: Oh right, I made some osmanthus cakes earlier to lift my mood.

Ye Shunguang: ...I'm not sure if it'll suit your taste, but... would you like to try some?

As she speaks, she pushes the osmanthus cakes she has closer to you, her eyes full of anticipation.

Try some osmanthus cakes.

(Enter Immersive Storytelling)

Maybe later.

(Talking to (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle) will repeat the dialogue)

Another Wave Rises

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Another Wave Rises"

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Video Summary: The story continues.

Story Description: You tried Xiao'Guang's osmanthus cake with (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍), when Ju Fufu arrives with news: everyone from Yunkui Summit had returned to Suibian Temple, but it seems something unexpected has happened at Sailume Bay.

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(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Wow, your osmanthus cakes are so good! (‍Mmm.Mmm.Text for Belle‍) So soft~

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍But isn't this a little too... sweet?But isn't this a little too... sweet?Text for Wise / But it's a little bit too... sweet?But it's a little bit too... sweet?Text for Belle‍)

It is a bit too sweet.

The sweeter the better, I say!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hmm... It is a bit sweet... But there's nothing wrong with a little (‍sweetness.sweetness.Text for Wise / sweetness!sweetness!Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: R—Really? Sorry... I guess I added too much sugar...

Ye Shunguang: I'll make it much better for you next time!

No need to be nervous...

It's already very delicious!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): There's no need to be so nervous, Xiao'Guang, it's already delicious!

Ye Shunguang: I... I'm glad you like it...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): But I've always wondered, why do you like osmanthus cakes so much?

Ye Shunguang: Actually... I just like anything related to osmanthus.

Ye Shunguang: I remember, a long time ago, when I just joined Yunkui Summit, there was a dessert shop on the corner of a nearby street.

Ye Shunguang: They made amazing osmanthus cakes there, so I always pestered my brother to get some for me.

Ye Shunguang: But for some reason, I ended up with a stomach ache every time I ate them, so my brother eventually stopped me from eating them.

Ye Shunguang: Then I decided to try making osmanthus cakes myself. So long as I made sure to use the right amount of the right ingredients, I was fine.

As she speaks, Xiao'Guang's eyes carry the nostalgia she has towards that past and... a hidden determination.

Yet, just as you're enjoying your osmanthus cakes, Senior Fufu suddenly runs over...

Ju Fufu: So this is where you were!

Ye Shunguang: Senior Fufu! You're back!

Ju Fufu: Yeah, we heard something happened again in Waifei, so we hurried back as fast as we could. We just got here today...

Ju Fufu: But never mind that! I just got word something strange has appeared over at Sailume Bay!

Ju Fufu: We should go take a look!

 Check out the situation on Sailume Bay's beach

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Ju Fufu says something weird just appeared in Sailume Bay. Let's hurry over and check it out!

Sailume Bay

(Idle, left of the news camera)

NPC 1: This is my first time seeing such a flower...

NPC 2: Maybe it's some new species, like a super low-maintenance ornamental flower? Even if there's really an issue, the masters at Yunkui Summit will help us sort it out.

(Idle, in front of the news camera)

NPC 3: BREAKING: Unknown Plant Species Discovered in Failume Heights! Your reporter brings you the latest scoop—

(Idle)

Dante: These white flowers are so pretty!

A-Yue: Just looking at it makes me feel so much better!

Mellow: Hmm...

(Talk to Mellow, optional)

Dante: What's wrong, Mellow? Don't you like these flowers?

Mellow: They popped out of nowhere, didn't they? Pretty sus if you ask me.

A-Yue: But they are really pretty...

Mellow: My mom always said, the prettier something is, the more dangerous it gets.

A-Yue: N—No way, aren't you overthinking this...?

These white flowers used to only bloom in the Hollow.

Better keep your distance from them.

Mellow: See, (‍Big Bro WiseBig Bro WiseText for Wise / Big Sis BelleBig Sis BelleText for Belle‍) says so too!

A-Yue: If something that's supposed to be only in the Hollow shows up here, yeah, that's pretty freaky...

Dante: Thanks for the heads up, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)! We better stay away from these white flowers!

(Idle, left of Mellow)

NPC 4: Where did these white flowers pop up from? They actually look pretty nice.

NPC 5: Sudden changes never bode well...

(Idle, left of the big flower)

Ning Qian: These are... the white flowers from before...

(Talk to Ning Qian, optional)

Ning Qian: You're here too!

Ning Qian: These white flowers look a lot like the ones we saw in the Hollow...

Ning Qian: And when you get close to them, you get this kinda cozy feeling.

They must be the same kind.

Ning Qian: ...That doesn't sound good at all.

Ning Qian: I hope I'm just overthinking this...

(Idle, right of the big flower)

Pan Yinhu: This white flower looks kinda familiar... Mr. Lu, does it ring any bells?

???: ...I've never seen it before.

(Interact with the Mysterious White Flower)

Strange White Flower

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Strange White Flower"

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Video Summary: The story continues.

Story Description: In Failume Heights, strange white flowers are sighted. Unexpectedly encounter the strict Yunkui Summit [sic] Mr. Lu Hengzhou, who is about to call a meeting. Despite feeling the pressure, Xiao'Guang still manages to promise (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) to eat osmanthus cake together again sometime.

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Crouching down, Ye Shunguang carefully brushes her fingertips across the white petals... Her face fills with shock and quiet worry.

Ye Shunguang: How is this possible...? Those strange white flowers we saw inside the Hollow are showing up out here too...

Ye Shunguang: And is it just my imagination, or does it somehow feel like... the Qingming Sword is reacting to them?

I have a bad feeling about this.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Yeah, I've got a bad feeling about this...

Ye Shunguang: Same! They look exactly like the ones in my memory.
If only Yixuan Shifu were here — she'd know what to make of this...

???: With everything that's happening in Failume Heights, it's only right for the High Preceptor to report directly to the mayor. That's her duty.

A man in Yunkui Summit uniform stands there without anyone noticing.
His sharp, eagle-like gaze sweeps over the white flowers on the ground, and then lands on Ye Shunguang.

???: And including, of course, the mess your brother caused — Ye Shiyuan... he's brought shame upon Yunkui Summit.

Ye Shunguang: Mr. Lu! My brother, he's just...

???: Ye Shunguang, facts are facts. There is no arguing them.
But remember this — the two of you walk different paths. You have your own burden to bear.

???: Since you've inherited the Qingming Sword, you must carry everything it represents. That is your destiny.

Ye Shunguang: ...

Who is this...?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Um... Excuse me, but — who might you be?

Ye Shunguang: Ah, sorry, I forgot to introduce him! He's Yunkui Summit's current—

Lu Hengzhou: I am Lu Hengzhou. I know who you are... Yixuan's new disciple.

Lu Hengzhou: As for these flowers, they've already been reported. So far, they seem harmless, exhibiting no signs of aggression. They are structurally fragile and ordinary in every way.

Ye Shunguang: No, they're not! I've seen these flowers before back when the old capital fell! And...

Ye Shunguang: We also found a ton of them deep inside Lemnian Hollow. The weird thing is, whenever we approached them... it seemed to weaken the effects of the Corruption...

Lu Hengzhou: Is that so? Then just to be safe, you may clear these flowers away for now.

Ye Shunguang: Ok... I'll try.

Xiao'Guang swings her sword, light flashes, and the white flowers before her crumble instantly into ash.
They're far more fragile than they look... Are they really just ordinary plants?

Ye Shunguang: Mr. Lu, please believe me. These flowers aren't as simple as they look. There's something deeper going on... We can't just let them spread like this!

Lu Hengzhou: ...You're not usually this persistent.

Lu Hengzhou: Is it because of what you've been through lately... or have you met someone "special" who's made you start questioning things?

Lu Hengzhou seems to glance in your direction... or is that just your imagination?

Ye Shunguang: N–No, that's not it... I just feel like this is too important to ignore...

Lu Hengzhou: Alright. Tomorrow evening I shall gather all the relevant people. We'll meet at the temple.

Ye Shunguang: Thank you!

Lu Hengzhou: Of course, this isn't only about the flowers.
It's also time to come to a final verdict on your brother's actions.

Lu Hengzhou: I'll need to review everything and make a statement that does right by the disciples of Yunkui Summit.

Ye Shunguang: I understand.

Lu Hengzhou: Good. That's all I needed to hear.

Lu Hengzhou: Ye Shunguang, never, ever, forget who you are, or the duty that comes with your gift and your sword.

Lu Hengzhou turns to leave.
As he brushes past, he pauses for a brief moment and murmurs something only the two of you can hear...

Let's hope your presence in her life brings strength... not burden.

Ye Shunguang: Sorry you had to see that. Mr. Lu's always been that way. He takes Yunkui Summit's honor more seriously than anything... but I'm sure he didn't mean any harm!

So... who exactly is he...?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So... who exactly is this Mr. Lu? Is he one of our seniors at Yunkui Summit or something?

Ye Shunguang: He's an elder of Yunkui Summit... He's the one who manages everything when Yixuan Shifu's not around.

An elder of Yunkui Summit...?

I thought everyone at Yunkui Summit...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): An elder...? But I heard that Yixuan Shifu was the only one from Yunkui Summit who survived the Failume Heights incident back then...

Ye Shunguang: Well, he's... more of a guardian than a fighter.

Ye Shunguang: Back when everyone left the mountain... he was tasked with making sure the disciples' families were safe. That's how he survived the disaster.

Ye Shunguang: I didn't think he'd come here too... Guess that means whatever's happening lately really is serious.

He seems kind of strict with you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Feels like... he's (‍kind ofkind ofText for Wise / kindakindaText for Belle‍) strict with you.

Ye Shunguang: Well... He always says that since I inherited the Qingming Sword, I must live up to that title that comes with the responsibility. He's just... got high expectations for me.

He doesn't seem to like me much...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): He... doesn't seem to like me much...

Ye Shunguang: Huh? R—Really? He's always been quite a serious person... He's probably feeling a bit tense lately, with everything going on...

Ye Shunguang: Alright, enough of that. It's getting late, and I need to prepare for tomorrow's meeting...

Ye Shunguang: Oh, right! The osmanthus cakes! They turned out a little off this time, but next time, I'll make the perfect batch for you to try!

Ye Shunguang: It's a promise... okay?

Her eyes glimmer as she looks at you, and, like she's finally gathered the courage, she holds out her pinky...
You reach out and hook yours gently with hers.
A bright, content smile spreads across her face. She pulls her hand back and gives you a small wave.

Ye Shunguang: See you tomorrow!

Ye Shunguang turns and disappears around the corner, just like any ordinary girl.
Yet somehow, as you watch her go, you can't shake the feeling that she's carrying something far heavier than she ever lets on.

 Start the meeting with everyone

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Everyone's here. Let's start the meeting once everyone's ready.

Suibian Temple

(Idles)

Ye Shunguang: I wonder when my (‍junior brotherjunior brotherText for Wise / juniorjuniorText for Belle‍) will arrive...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise's on his way. He should be here any minute.Wise's on his way. He should be here any minute.Text for Wise / Belle's on her way. She should be here any minute.Belle's on her way. She should be here any minute.Text for Belle‍)

Dialyn: A meeting at Yunkui Summit, and they invited us~ How interesting.

Banyue: Regardless of our identity, solving the issue is what matters.

Pan Yinhu: Mr. Lu, will we be discussing the white flowers in the upcoming meeting?

Lu Hengzhou: I've already arranged for the disciples to handle those white flowers. It's not the main focus for the upcoming meeting.

Ju Fufu: I—I see...

(Talk to Lu Hengzhou)

Anxious Meeting

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Anxious Meeting

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Video Summary: The story continues.

Story Description: Everyone gathers to review what happened before. Ye Shunguang is scolded by Yixuan for drawing [sic] Qingming Sword and is ordered to rest. She argues her case, insisting on joining the follow-up investigation, but the decision stands, firm and final.

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You arrive at Suibian Temple's main hall. Everyone's already here. Yixuan joins remotely due to other obligations.
Ye Shunguang stands quietly to one side, nervously twisting the edge of her clothes.

Lu Hengzhou: Since everyone's here, let's begin.

Lu Hengzhou: The purpose of this meeting is to gather what we know, review the current situation, and discuss what to do with Ye Shiyuan.

Yixuan: My apologies, everyone. It is a little inconvenient for me, so I'll have to join you like this.

Yixuan: When I heard what happened with Shiyuan some time ago, I had planned to return to Failume Heights immediately, but I received an urgent mission from the mayor.

Yixuan: There's been an abnormal disturbance inside Hollow Zero, and as manpower was insufficient, Section 6 and I were sent to deal with it. It's a complicated matter and still has yet to be resolved. I am unable to leave at this time.

Yixuan: Mr. Lu has given me a rundown of the situation regarding the Creator. The situation is dire, so I've also shared this information with the mayor. However, my information is likely not complete.

Yixuan: As such, I would like each of you who was there to briefly recount what happened, so we can make the most accurate judgment possible.

Dialyn: Long story short, that Miss Sarah from the Exaltists was behind a whole string of events. Her real goal was to awaken the Creator.

Dialyn: Meanwhile, Ye Shiyuan's so-called partnership with Sarah was just a cover. What he really wanted was to destroy the creature before it could fully awaken...

Dialyn: Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. He overestimated himself, and in the end, he was possessed by the Creator's power. We ended up having to fight him.

Banyue: Thanks to Xiao'Guang's assistance at a crucial moment, we were able to subdue the monster under the Creator's control and awaken Ye Shiyuan.

It's all thanks to Xiao'Guang.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's all thanks to Xiao'Guang. Without her, we wouldn't have been able to suppress that monster or rescue Senior Ye!

Yixuan: Yet everything comes with a price. And that price — Xiao'Guang, you used the power of the Qingming Sword, didn't you?

Good thing we had the Qingming Sword.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Good thing we had the Qingming Sword. It made it possible for us to take that monster down and save Senior Ye!

Yixuan: So I've heard. Xiao'Guang, you ended up using the power of the Qingming Sword after all, didn't you?

Ye Shunguang: I—I'm sorry... Shifu...

Yixuan: When you inherited the Qingming Sword, I told you — unless it's a matter of life and death, you must never draw it from its case, or tap into its power source.

Ye Shunguang: But... my brother's life was hanging by a thread, and my friends were in danger... Please, Shifu, tell me, what situation could possibly be more dire than that?

Yixuan: ...Xiao'Guang, I'm not blaming you. It's just... more than saving others, I'd rather you learn to protect yourself.

Yixuan: Let's leave it here for now. Anyone else have something to add?

Banyue: Though we ultimately prevailed, Ye Shiyuan left on his own in the chaos. We have no information on his whereabouts.

Yixuan: I've also been informed of that. I'll see what I can do to locate him.

Lu Hengzhou: High Preceptor, Ye Shiyuan colluded with the Exaltists, endangered Failume Heights, and brought shame upon Yunkui Summit... Surely this can't be brushed aside with just a vague "locate him," can it?

Yixuan: You probably don't know this, but before I left, I sent the Qingming Bird to Lemnian Hollow to search for him. But the poor thing got trapped there by the Exaltists and only just made it back.

Yixuan: When I examined the bird, I realized Shiyuan had been trying to send me messages about the Creator, but they never got through.

Yixuan: So no, Shiyuan never really sided with the Exaltists or betrayed Yunkui Summit. And that's exactly why we need to find him — hear what he has to say, face to face.

Ye Shunguang: My brother must've had his own reasons for everything he did... I know he'd never betray us!

Lu Hengzhou: ...Whatever the case, Ye Shiyuan has done real damage to Yunkui Summit's reputation. Still, the details can wait until he returns. We'll deal with it properly then.

Dialyn: I take it you two are finished now? Then let me add something — when Sarah tried to summon the Creator, we saw this really weird black mist appear.

Dialyn: And the strange thing is... we couldn't even hit it. Our attacks went right through.

Yixuan: Couldn't hit it...

Banyue: That black mist is a formless entity. To harm it, you must condense it into a tangible state, just like the creature the Creator commanded.

Yixuan: I see it now. That black mist must be the true form of the Creator's power.

Yixuan: I've already discussed this with the mayor. He plans to conduct a discreet investigation through his own channels. For now, we're to stay put.

Yixuan: Especially you, Xiao'Guang. You need to stay in the temple and focus on recovering. Don't take any more risks.

Ye Shunguang: But... I...

Ju Fufu: Shifu's right, Xiao'Guang. You fainted before, remember? You really can't keep pushing yourself like this anymore!

Pan Yinhu: Yeah, Xiao'Guang. Since both Shifu and the mayor are stepping in, we can finally take a little break.

Lu Hengzhou: The power of the Qingming Sword is both the pride of Yunkui Summit and the burden of its wielder. But right now is not the time for it to be drawn.

Lu Hengzhou: You must cherish this power, and use it for the sake of many, not to serve your own feelings.

Lu Hengzhou: So, I agree with the High Preceptor's decision. Ye Shunguang, you need to rest.

Maybe we should hear what Xiao'Guang thinks first?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Um... How about we let Xiao'Guang speak for herself first? She's the one who's actually going through all this...

Ye Shunguang: Thank you, Junior...

Ye Shunguang looks your way, gratitude flickering in her eyes.
Then she takes a deep breath, like she's gathering every ounce of courage, and meets everyone's gaze head-on.

Ye Shunguang: I want to help with the investigation too! Even without drawing the sword, there must be something I can still do! Please, let me —

Yixuan: No.

Yixuan: I've already said this before — if you want to avoid the sword's negative effects, you must stay away from anything related to it. This isn't up for debate.

Yixuan: If there are no objections, I'll take my leave here.

Lu Hengzhou: Since the High Preceptor has spoken, this meeting is concluded. Thank you all for your cooperation.

Ye Shunguang: ...

The air is heavy with silence.
Ye Shunguang's shoulders slump a little. She quickly lifts her hand to wipe her cheek, like she's erasing something.
Then, running from everyone's gaze, she turns and leaves without a word...

 Talk with everyone

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After the meeting, it seems people still have things to say. Go chat with them.

Suibian Temple

(Idle)

Dialyn: Well then, it's about time we head back.

Banyue: Let's hope everything turns out well.

(Talk to Banyue and Dialyn)

Dialyn: Looks like there's drama~ going down at Yunkui Summit~

Banyue: Yunkui Summit and Krampus... definitely have very different styles.

How's Banyue Shifu finding Krampus?

Banyue: Getting used to it, thank you for asking.

Dialyn: Banyue's a key player in Krampus now, you know!

Dialyn: Someone like him — powerful yet honest and reliable — is a rare find. Of course we had to snatch him up right away.

Dialyn: Oh right, Senior Zhao seems to have taken on a big mission lately. We might need to help out, so let's be ready–

Miss Zhao?

Dialyn: That's right. Senior Zhao is a super busy person, and the boss really trusts her.

Dialyn: Let me tell you a secret. She even has this wild title: Krampus's "Unbeaten Legend".

Dialyn: Word is, since joining Krampus on the boss's recommendation, she's never failed a single mission she's taken on.

Banyue: I see. Senior Zhao is certainly impressive.

Dialyn: Whoa, it feels kinda weird hearing you call her "senior"...

Dialyn: Oh my, it's getting late. Banyue and I should head back to Krampus.

Dialyn: See you later then, Proxy.

Banyue: We shall be taking our leave.

Dialyn and Banyue leave first...

(Idle)

Lu Hengzhou: The keeper of the Qingming Sword... shouldn't be so childish.

Pan Yinhu: Mr. Lu, aren't you being a bit too harsh on Junior Xiao'Guang...

(Talk to Lu Hengzhou and Pan Yinhu)

Lu Hengzhou: As the keeper of the Qingming Sword, Ye Shunguang should shoulder more responsibility.

Lu Hengzhou: The way she's acting now is a total disgrace to Yunkui Summit.

Pan Yinhu: But... Xiao'Guang didn't want to become the Sword Keeper either. She's still so young...

Lu Hengzhou: Ridiculous! Becoming the keeper of the Qingming Sword is a tremendous honor. It should be the goal of every Yunkui Summit disciple!

Lu Hengzhou: Tch, if only I or Yixuan had become the Sword Keeper instead.

Lu Hengzhou: What a shame...

Lu Hengzhou: Alas, that's enough chit-chat. We have much to do.

Lu Hengzhou: Next, you should take some disciples to deal with those strange white flowers in Failume Heights. She was particularly wary of those flowers earlier... There must be some reason for that.

Lu Hengzhou: Regardless of my concerns, I trust the Qingming Sword Keeper's judgment when it comes to danger.

Lu Hengzhou: As for the investigation into the Creator's power, I shall handle that personally.

Pan Yinhu: Understood, Mr. Lu. I'll arrange for it right away.

Lu Hengzhou and Pan Yinhu leave together...

 Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) about Xiao'Guang

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Xiao'Guang seemed a bit off when the meeting ended... Let's talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) about it.

Suibian Temple

(Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍))

The Qingming Sword

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 The Qingming Sword

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Video Summary: "She," too, had been waiting.

Story Description: To confirm whether Ye Shunguang is at risk of memory loss, everyone contacts Yixuan, only to learn the cruel truth: the sword's backlash cannot be reversed. Ye Shunguang becoming its wielder was pure accident. Yixuan had hoped she herself would be chosen instead.

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(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise, I'm still a little worried. Sure, Xiao'Guang looks fine now, but who knows if that sword's influence might get worse...Wise, I'm still a little worried. Sure, Xiao'Guang looks fine now, but who knows if that sword's influence might get worse...Text for Wise / Belle, I'm still not entirely at ease. Even if Xiao'Guang seems fine now, we can't rule out that the Qingming Sword's effects could worsen...Belle, I'm still not entirely at ease. Even if Xiao'Guang seems fine now, we can't rule out that the Qingming Sword's effects could worsen...Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): It won't be good if she really does lose all of her (‍memories!memories!Text for Wise / memory...memory...Text for Belle‍) Maybe we should reach out to Yixuan Shifu again?

You've got a point.

Let's go ask Fufu about it.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍That makes sense.That makes sense.Text for Wise / Right.Right.Text for Belle‍) But reaching out to Shifu directly might be disruptive — she's had her hands full lately. Let's consult Senior Fufu first.

You find Ju Fufu and tell her about your worries that Xiao'Guang may really be losing her memory. Turns out she's been just as anxious about it... After some discussion, she contacts Yixuan.

Ju Fufu: Shifu! We're really worried about Xiao'Guang! If... I mean if she really does start showing signs of memory loss... is there anything we can do?

Yixuan: ...There's nothing we can do.

Yixuan: According to the records of past sword wielders, memory loss itself is a warning sign. Once it begins, the erosion caused by the Qingming Sword only grows stronger.
And after that, there's no turning back.

Ju Fufu: No way...

Yixuan: But based on my studies, as long as the case remains intact, and Xiao'Guang refrains from drawing on the sword's core power, its influence on her can, in theory, be contained.

Yixuan: So you must keep a close eye on her condition. Whatever happens, she must never use that sword the way she did before.

Ju Fufu: Understood. We'll keep a close watch on her!

Yixuan: And... about what I said during the meeting earlier, I was too harsh. I didn't think about how it would make her feel. I know she only wanted to help...

Yixuan: But I just... After my sister...

Yixuan: After what happened to my sister, I can't lose another person to that sword. Especially not my own disciple, someone I'm supposed to protect.

Yixuan: If only the Qingming Sword had chosen me instead...

Ju Fufu: Please don't blame yourself, Shifu. I know you only said those things because you're worried about Xiao'Guang... I'm sure she'll understand, too.

Qingming Sword chooses its own master...?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hold on a second. That means... the Qingming Sword actually chooses its own master?

Yixuan: Yes, that's right. The Qingming Sword chose every one of its masters. Only those it accepts can resonate with it and wield its power.

Yixuan: But even after all these years, no one has figured out what that sword looks for. It doesn't seem tied to strength, talent, or anything measurable.

Yixuan: Back when Xiao'Guang and Shiyuan joined Yunkui Summit, Mr. Lu thought Shiyuan showed far greater potential.

Yixuan: I once guessed the Qingming Sword might choose people with a certain kind of constitution... but that doesn't explain why it passed over me, when my constitution is far closer to my sister's, and chose Xiao'Guang instead.

Yixuan: We know far too little about this sword...

In that case...

Why let Xiao'Guang inherit the Qingming Sword in the first place?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Sorry if this sounds blunt, but if we already knew the tragic fate of the Qingming Sword's wielders, why let Xiao'Guang inherit it...?

Yixuan: This was... my mistake. One I'll never be able to forgive myself for.

Yixuan: After my sister's accident, I devoted everything I had to studying how to suppress the sword's side effects. When I finally succeeded with the case, I naively thought that would be enough and that the sword could be tamed... So I let my guard down.

Yixuan: Back then, Xiao'Guang had only just joined the sect. She was still a curious child. One day, when she was playing behind the mountain, she wandered into an off-limit area where the case was kept... All it took was one touch, and the sword chose her.

Yixuan: Once the bond is formed, it can't be undone... until the keeper's death.

Yixuan: If only I'd been more careful with its safekeeping... The case had been successful, and I let my pride dull my vigilance... none of this would've happened.

Ju Fufu: I've heard about it. According to Elder Lu, it was just an accident! No one could've known that something as simple as a touch would form a bond...

Ju Fufu: Instead of blaming anyone, maybe we should focus on what to do next?

Ju Fufu: The way she looked just now... She must be really hurting inside...

I agree.

I'll go talk to Xiao'Guang.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I agree.I agree.Text for Wise / Yeah, that's what I thought too.Yeah, that's what I thought too.Text for Belle‍) Leaving her alone with her thoughts right now probably isn't (‍good... Maybe I should go check in on her?good... Maybe I should go check in on her?Text for Wise / helping... How about I go talk to her?helping... How about I go talk to her?Text for Belle‍)

Ju Fufu: I still have something I need to take care of, so if you could go keep her company, that'd be perfect.

Ju Fufu: Xiao'Guang really adores you, you know. Having you by her side will make her feel so much better.

Yixuan: Please... when you see her, tell her I'm sorry. Tell her it's my fault.

Yixuan lets out a quiet sigh before ending the call.
Ju Fufu and (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) both have other matters to attend to and leave soon after...

 Go to Xiao'Guang's room to find her

---

Xiao'Guang probably ran back to her room. Let's go talk to her.

Suibian Temple

(Enter Ye Shunguang's room)

(Xiao'Guang doesn't seem to be in her room? Wonder where she went...)

(There's a notebook on the desk. Looks like it's Xiao'Guang's diary...)

(Should I take a look?)

(Sneak a peek at the diary)

You open the notebook and take a quick glance. It's filled with densely packed text, seemingly documenting something in great detail.

But, feeling a bit guilty, you can't make out the details...
You quickly close it back up.

(Better not look)

You guiltily avert your gaze...

(Maybe I shouldn't read it if it's Xiao'Guang's new diary entry...)

Memory Shard

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Memory Shard

---

Video Summary: "She," too, had been waiting.

Story Description: You find a journal in Ye Shunguang's room. Ju Fufu arrives to pass on Yixuan's apology and conduct a memory check on Ye Shunguang. After a series of questions and answers, her memory appears intact.

---

---

Just then, a familiar voice comes from behind me... It sounds a bit startled, and flustered even?

Ye Shunguang: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)... Wh—What are you doing here...?

I heard something strange just now...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Oh, it's just, uh...Oh, it's just, uh...Text for Wise / Oh well, uh...Oh well, uh...Text for Belle‍) when I knocked earlier, I heard a strange noise from inside. I thought something might've (‍happened, so I came in to take a look...happened, so I came in to take a look...Text for Wise / happened to you, so...happened to you, so...Text for Belle‍)

I'm a little worried about you.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Y—You looked upset earlier. I was concerned, and wanted to see how you're doing...Y—You looked upset earlier. I was concerned, and wanted to see how you're doing...Text for Wise / Y—You looked kinda down just now, so I got worried and thought I'd come check up on you...Y—You looked kinda down just now, so I got worried and thought I'd come check up on you...Text for Belle‍)

Suddenly, a chubby orange cat waddles out from the corner of the room.
It looks over, meows triumphantly, and struts right past our feet...
So that weird noise just now must've been this little cat's doing...

Ye Shunguang: Thank you. I'm fine, really.

Ye Shunguang: But you... um, my diary...?

I didn't read it.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't worry. I just got here. I didn't read your (‍diary.diary.Text for Wise / diary, I swear!diary, I swear!Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: Um... if it's you, I don't really mind... It's just trivial, everyday things anyway, nothing special.

I may have caught a glimpse...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Uh... I'm sorry... I actually caught a glimpse...

Ye Shunguang: Huh?! W—Wait, what exactly did you see...?

Before she finishes speaking, another familiar voice comes from behind...

Ju Fufu: Oh, you're both here! Perfect! I was just about to go looking for you.

Ju Fufu: Xiao'Guang, about what happened at the meeting... Shifu asked us to pass on her apology.

Ye Shunguang: I know. She's only being strict because she cares... I understand that.

A hint of sadness flickers across Ye Shunguang's face, but she quickly pushes it down, replacing it with that polite, well-behaved smile of hers.
Just like nothing ever happened.

Ye Shunguang: Anyway, thank you, both of you, for worrying about me.

You don't always have to be the understanding one.

It's okay to be upset, you know.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Xiao'Guang, I've been meaning to tell you... you don't always have to be the understanding one. It's alright to feel bothered, to feel sad. Anyone would — I would, if I were in your situation.Xiao'Guang, I've been meaning to tell you... you don't always have to be the understanding one. It's alright to feel bothered, to feel sad. Anyone would — I would, if I were in your situation.Text for Wise / You know... Xiao'Guang, you don't have to be so considerate all the time. It's okay to feel bothered, to get upset. If I were in your shoes, I'd be hurt too.You know... Xiao'Guang, you don't have to be so considerate all the time. It's okay to feel bothered, to get upset. If I were in your shoes, I'd be hurt too.Text for Belle‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Those feelings are perfectly normal, nothing to be ashamed of. So... remember, you don't have to carry all of it alone, okay?Those feelings are perfectly normal, nothing to be ashamed of. So... remember, you don't have to carry all of it alone, okay?Text for Wise / It's totally normal, really. Everyone feels that way sometimes. So... don't keep blaming yourself, okay?It's totally normal, really. Everyone feels that way sometimes. So... don't keep blaming yourself, okay?Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: ...

Ye Shunguang: ...Thank you, really. I get it. Don't worry. I'm okay.

Ju Fufu: Alright, alright! Shifu also asked us to do something else — a little test for you, actually!
She just wants to make sure your memory's still doing fine. Just answer whatever feels right, okay?

Ye Shunguang: Huh? A—A test?! Alright then...

Ju Fufu: I don't know everything you two have been through, so I'll let you do the asking! Just three questions will be enough!

Ask her what she had at Yum Cha Sin.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hmm... alright, first question! What did we have back at Yum Cha Sin?

Ye Shunguang: The Moonveil Osmanthus Cakes! Made with the very first golden blossoms picked this morning. Soft, sweet, and melt right in your mouth. They go perfectly with tea.

Ye Shunguang: I also asked you... if memories are like tea leaves that fall to the bottom of the cup, so deep that they never surface again...

Ye Shunguang: And you told me that memories aren't reflections in a teacup, and that the tea leaves can still float back up if something stirs them one day.

Ask about how you two first met.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hmm... (‍let me think...let me think...Text for Wise / let's see...let's see...Text for Belle‍) When we first met, what were you (‍doing at the time?doing at the time?Text for Wise / doing?doing?Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: When we first met... hmm, if you mean at Suibian Temple, I think I was trying to rescue that chubby orange cat.

Ju Fufu: Looks like you got the first one right. So let's move on to question two.

Ask about when she was reading fortunes.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): When you were doing fortune reading for everyone, what role were you pretending to be?

Ye Shunguang: Um... uh, the "acting temple master."

Ye Shunguang: And Bolion was there helping out... and then I ran into you!

Ask about that night by the fire.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): During that night by the fire, we watched the stars and talked about the silly stuff that happened recently. What story did you share?

Ye Shunguang: I talked about... how I didn't bring enough money when I left Yunkui Summit and almost ended up going to that pawnshop in town. I thought... there was nothing left worth keeping except the Qingming Sword...

Ju Fufu: Right again! Now, onto the final question...

What do you like being called the most?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍And the last one... what do you like to be called the most?And the last one... what do you like to be called the most?Text for Wise / Last question! What do you like being called the most?Last question! What do you like being called the most?Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: Wait! Isn't this question... a bit too sudden?!

Ju Fufu: Hehe, I know the answer to this one. It's that... uh, you know, that~

Ye Shunguang: Mm... Senior...

Can't quite hear you~

Mind saying a little louder?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Hmm? Couldn't quite catch that. Say it a little louder?Hmm? Couldn't quite catch that. Say it a little louder?Text for Wise / Whoa, the wind totally drowned you out! Didn't really hear you~ Mind saying that a bit louder?Whoa, the wind totally drowned you out! Didn't really hear you~ Mind saying that a bit louder?Text for Belle‍)

Ye Shunguang: I—It's "Senior"! Ugh, you're teasing me again...

Ju Fufu: Perfect! Seems like your memory's just fine! That really puts my mind at ease.

Ju Fufu: *Yawn* It's getting late, so I'll head out first. You two get some rest, alright!

After Ju Fufu says her goodbyes, she leaves the room.
Now it's just you and Ye Shunguang, and somehow, the air feels a little... different.
Just as you're about to come up with an excuse to head back to your room, Xiao'Guang calls out to you.

You're welcome...

I couldn't really do much either...

Don't talk about yourself like that.

You're already doing great.

It's alright.

You can talk to me about anything, anytime.

Yup, see you tomorrow!

 Head back and rest

---

It's getting late, time to head back to my room and get some rest.

Suibian Temple

(Interact with Ye Shunguang's diary, optional)

(You subconsciously glance at the diary on the desk again...)

Ye Shunguang: Y—You... You really want to read this diary that badly?

I do!

Not really.

Ye Shunguang: If you want to see it... you can take a look.

Ye Shunguang: But it's just filled with all sorts of random little things!

Ye Shunguang: I read in a book that writing down everything that happens each day is super meaningful, you know, like making a record of your memories and stuff...

Ye Shunguang: In any case, if it's my little junior... you can go ahead and look if you want!

(Open diary interface)

(Interact with Warm Bed)

(Let's get some rest first...)

After a busy day, you quickly drift into sweet dreams.
Then, while deep in sleep, you suddenly hear someone calling my name...?
In the end, you reluctantly dragged yourself out of bed...

 Find out who is calling

---

A strange voice is calling. Who in Eridu is it...?

Suibian Temple

(Ongoing)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (It's already so late... Who in the world would come looking for me now?)

(Approach the door)

(A ghostly shadow wisps by the moon gate)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (D—Did I really see that? That shadowy figure... was it just my imagination?)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Whatever, I'll just follow it and see what's going on!)

(Interact with Xiao'Guang's Room, optional)

Late at night in Suibian Temple, everyone has gone to rest. Not a soul in sight...

You gently knock on Xiao'Guang's door, but there is no response...

(That voice just now... it sounded a bit like Xiao'Guang's... or was I just imagining things?)

(Reach the marked location)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (There's nothing here...)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (This is Suibian Temple! No evil spirit would dare show up here... It's probably just a thief!)

(Behind (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle), the silver specter slips away)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Oh, there's a cat over there... I'll go take a look.)

(Interact with the cat)

(This is the chubby orange cat that Xiao'Guang saved when I first met her!)

(Seems like this little one saw something...?)

(Behind me...)

You can sense it... There's definitely something lurking behind you...

"Ye Shunguang"

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Ye Shunguang"

---

Video Summary: "She," too, had been waiting.

---

(A cinematic plays)

(While (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle) looks around, the cat becomes startled)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Is someone there...?

(A mouse appears and scurries away)

(Atop Suibian Temple, the pale figure calls out from the roof)

???: Junior...

???: Finally, we meet again~

(The figure floats down towards the (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle))

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Wait, I know you...

"Ye Shunguang": Surprised?

"Ye Shunguang": Thought I was your sweet, well-behaved senior?

"Ye Shunguang": Too bad

"Ye Shunguang": The one standing here now...

"Ye Shunguang": Is a beast who just wants to survive~

(Cinematic ends)

Another Her

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Another Her

---

Video Summary: "She," too, had been waiting.

Story Description: Another Xiao'Guang appears. She claims to be Xiao'Guang's repressed, true self, questioning the meaning of sacrifice and insisting that one's own life matters most. After a brief moment, she reverts back to the usual Xiao'Guang, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.

---

---

"Ye Shunguang": I've been waiting for you for such a long time~ My, dear, junior~

Wait... Xiao'Guang? Is that you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Wait... is it really you?

"Ye Shunguang": Xiao'Guang? Oh... you mean that naive, sweet girl who's always ready to sacrifice herself for others? The one who never says no, no matter what?

"Ye Shunguang": Tell me, do you want me to be her?

"Ye Shunguang": Well, it doesn't matter what you think... I am part of her, always have been. We were never apart.

You're the one that appeared after she used Qingming Sword...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You're the one that appeared after she used the Qingming Sword, aren't you...?

"Ye Shunguang": Mhm, your memory's sharp.

"Ye Shunguang": That's right. I am... your senior, Ye Shunguang, through and through.

(Both choices lead to the following)

You're her other self?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Could it be... you're a split personality?

"Ye Shunguang": If that makes it easier for you, feel free to think of me as such.

"Ye Shunguang": I'm the one she hides under that perfect, obedient mask — the one she refuses to admit exists, but can't erase. Her other half.

"Ye Shunguang": If she's the light, then I'm her shadow. If she's the saint high above, then I'm the one crawling through the dirt.

"Ye Shunguang": She's willing to use that sword — that cursed power — to "save everyone," to play "the hero." Funny.

"Ye Shunguang": But me? I just want to live.

"Ye Shunguang": How can you save others when you can't even save yourself? It's all just a story people make up to feel moved by their own sacrifice, the stupidest lie ever told.

I don't agree with you.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I can't agree with that. Xiao'Guang's wish to help others isn't some kind of fake sentiment. It's genuine.

"Ye Shunguang": Hah... you're really protective of her, aren't you?

You do have a point...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I get where you're coming from... I (‍justjustText for Belle‍) don't want to see her hurt herself for the sake of helping everyone else. That's not fair to her.

"Ye Shunguang": Fair, you say? Heh, you're the very first person who's ever said that word to me.

"Ye Shunguang": I like it. No wonder she thinks you're so special.

"Ye Shunguang": But let me tell you something. Every chosen heir of the Qingming Sword is expected to become a hero.

"Ye Shunguang": And yet people are selfish by nature. Behind every noble reason hides an ugly truth.

"Ye Shunguang": People want heroes. They raise their banners high, but all they really want is someone else to take the fall — a shield to stand in front of them, someone to die in their place.

"Ye Shunguang": But when that hero burns out, when she's spent everything she has... what then? Oh, they'll build a monument, offer flowers, shed a few pretty tears, write poems about her glory...

"Ye Shunguang": And then, they'll wait for the next fool to pick up the sword, to become the new "hero."

"Ye Shunguang": No one ever cares about the person beneath that title — the one who bleeds, who trembles, who cries...

"Ye Shunguang": So tell me... if one day, that hero stood before everyone and said, "It hurts. I can't do this anymore. I just want to live..."?

"Ye Shunguang": What do you think would happen?

People... would understand, right?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): People... would understand, right? Everyone has the right to choose for themselves...

"Ye Shunguang": ...You really are just as naive as she is.

...I don't know.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I... I don't know. But everyone has the right to make their own choice...

"Ye Shunguang": I like your honesty.

The "Ye Shunguang" before you suddenly leans in, her breath warm against your ear.

"Ye Shunguang": The truth is, from the moment that sword chose me, I knew exactly what I wanted — to be anything but a "hero."

"Ye Shunguang": I refuse to die before the world does.

"Ye Shunguang"'s fingertips brush lightly against your cheek, bringing a slight chill.
With a half-smile, she gives you a teasing look, her lips curving in that sly, knowing way.

"Ye Shunguang": Oh, did I scare you? Don't worry. I just needed some air. She'll be back, very soon.

"Ye Shunguang": How about I let you in on a little secret — this outfit? I picked it out for her~ Pretty, isn't it?

"Ye Shunguang": Ah... looks like it's about time. She's waking up... Guess we'll talk again soon.

Wait!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Hold on!Hold on!Text for Wise / Wait!Wait!Text for Belle‍) I still have (‍a lota lotText for Wise / tonstonsText for Belle‍) of questions to ask you...!

Before you can finish your sentence, it's as if the white-haired Xiao'Guang suddenly shuts down, her eyes fluttering shut...
A moment later, the familiar Xiao'Guang finally returns.

Ye Shunguang: ...(‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)? What happened to me...?

Xiao'Guang, do you sleepwalk?

Ye Shunguang: Sleepwalk? I... don't think so?

Xiao'Guang, I just saw another you...

Ye Shunguang: "Another me"? What do you mean...? Did you have some kind of odd dream too?

 Return to your room and rest

---

Xiao'Guang seems just as clueless about what happened. It's late, I should head back to my room and get some rest...

Suibian Temple

(Interact with Warm Bed)

(Looks like Xiao'Guang doesn't remember her other self...)

(Generally speaking, shouldn't we avoid provoking her in a situation like this? Otherwise, things might get messy.)

(I should talk to Senior Fufu about this tomorrow...)

After all that running around, you quickly drift off to sleep...