Dark Tides Rising
Last updated 2026-02-17
Dark Tides Rising is the second episode of Season 2 - Chapter 5: On the Precipice of the Abyss in Phaethon's Story.
Parts
- White Flower
- Acting Temple Master
- Helpful Customer Rep
- The Art of Interrogation
- Martial Arts Apprentice
- Close Call
- Reunion
- Commission Target
- Heretic
- Slaughterer
- Be Honest
- Primordial Truth
- Pending Redemption
Steps
- Old Friends, New Stories
- Use Disintegration to clear the way
- Keep pushing on
- Defeat the Ethereals before you
- Ask the Porcelumex manager
- Use Disintegration to clear the obstacle
- Talk to the miner ahead
- Keep pushing on
- Keep pushing on
- Investigate the rubble blocking the road
- Pull the minecart lever
- Start the minecart, clear the rubble
- Break the Symbiotic Nodes
- Rescue the trapped martial arts student
- Keep pushing on
- Continue deeper into the mining area
- Defeat the Miasmic monsters
- Meet the impatient supervisor
- Gentle Words and Quiet Rest
- Chat with Xiao'Guang
- Talk to (BelleBelle /
WiseWise)
Gameplay Notes
- During step 3, a trial
Dialyn is added to the squad. During step 15, a trial 
Banyue is added to the squad. During step 17, trial Banyue is removed from the squad. - Additionally,
Ye Shunguang will assist in battle.
Trial Mode
| Inter-Knot Rank:
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| Team Position |
Agent & W-Engine |
Skills & Equipment | Stats |
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1 |
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 HP: 9,497 +10,211 ATK: 1,453 +490 DEF: 445 +334 Impact: 95 CRIT Rate: 67.4% CRIT DMG: 123.6% Anomaly Mastery: 90 Anomaly Proficiency: ? PEN Ratio: ?% PEN: ? Energy Regen: ? Energy Generation Rate: ?% Energy Limit: ? DMG Bonus: 30% Sheer Force: 2,452 Adrenaline GainAdrenaline Gain: 2 Max Adrenaline: 120 |
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2 |
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HP: 8,250 +4,581 ATK: 1,352 +397 DEF: 612 +334 Impact: 110 CRIT Rate: 75.4% CRIT DMG: 107.6% Anomaly Mastery: 94 Anomaly Proficiency: 93 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 1.2 +1.32 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 DMG Bonus: 30% |
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Dialogue
Light Dances, Water Ripples
"White Flower"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
White FlowerVideo Summary: Even places once swallowed by Miasma are starting to show traces of life again...
Story Description: There's a special flower in the Hollow that Ye Shunguang feels she's seen somewhere before.
- Ye Shunguang: Huh? Were there always flowers like these in the Hollow...?
: I feel like I've seen these flowers before.- : No signs of Miasma corruption.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I think I've seen flowers like these before... And they don't seem to show any signs of Miasma corruption either...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (It's just like what Old Zao said, Miasma in Lemnian Hollow seems to be receding like an ebbing tide...It's just like what Old Zao said, Miasma in Lemnian Hollow seems to be receding like an ebbing tide... /
That ties back to what Old Zao mentioned earlier — Miasma in Lemnian Hollow seems to be receding like an ebbing tide...That ties back to what Old Zao mentioned earlier — Miasma in Lemnian Hollow seems to be receding like an ebbing tide...) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): Maybe this is one of the signs that the Miasma is getting weaker? Places once swallowed by it are starting to show traces of life again...
- Ye Shunguang: Is that so...? I feel like I've seen these white flowers before... a long time ago. But where was it...?
- Ye Shunguang: Never mind. That doesn't matter now. Let's keep going!
Old Friends, New Stories
- (Ongoing)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): The path's blocked... Let's use Disintegration to clear the (obstacle.obstacle. /
obstacle!obstacle!)
- (After using Disintegration on the target)
- Cry for Help: H—Help! Help me!
- Ye Shunguang: Someone's calling for help... Over there!
Perfect Customer Service
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Perfect Customer ServiceVideo Summary: Rep 2493, Dialyn, at your service!
- Porcelumex Manager: H–Help, please!
- Dialyn: Request received, Dear. I'm on it...!
- Dialyn: Dear, please leave a five-star review for today
- Dialyn: And delete any prior complaints or negative comments~
- Dialyn: Otherwise...
- Dialyn: Teehee...
"Helpful Customer Rep"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Helpful Customer RepVideo Summary: Rep 2493, Dialyn, at your service!
Story Description: You ask Dialyn to help you find the trapped people. She agrees.
- Porcelumex Manager: Y—You'll make sure I get back safe, right?
- Porcelumex Manager: You have to understand how important I am to this operation! If I can't submit the Mine Reactivation Safety Report...
- Dialyn: Please kindly shut that little mouth of yours. I almost envy how blissfully clueless you are — after causing this mess, you don't even realize it...
- Dialyn: Heehee, how does that saying go? Don't put your foot in your mouth~
- Porcelumex Manager: Causing a mess? What do you mean?
- Dialyn: Tsk. Reasoning with a reckless fool isn't in my job description. I'm only here to deal with a customer complaint you filed a few days ago. Who knew you'd run off somewhere this dangerous...
- Dialyn: Finding the quickest and most efficient fix for every complaint — that's the mission of our TOPS Cross-Department Customer Service Center~
- Dialyn: Just think of me as your Preschooler's Self-Service Guide. Want me to switch to the kiddie navigation mode while I'm at it?
- Porcelumex Manager: You...!
- : Dialyn, we meet again.
- : Cross-Department Customer Service Center?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Hey Dialyn, we meet again. What's TOPS Cross-Department Customer Service Center? Weren't you with Krampus...?
- Dialyn: Shh — times are tough. Gotta keep a few side gigs to stay afloat. Judging by that look, you didn't come here for sightseeing either, huh?
- : We're here to rescue people...
- : Wanna join us?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): We heard (there are people trapped herethere are people trapped here /
people are trapped herepeople are trapped here). My friend and I came to help. (Are you here for the same reason? If so, we should move together.Are you here for the same reason? If so, we should move together. / If you're also here to rescue people, why not join us?If you're also here to rescue people, why not join us?) It'll be safer that way. - Dialyn: Me? I'm just an unlucky call center operator who came chasing down a customer complaint...
- Dialyn: But hey, since we're all friends here, I'd be glad to help if you promise to leave me some good reviews so I can hit my quota today~
- Dialyn: Oops, there I go running my mouth again. As soon as I say yes to something, trouble pops right up.
- A few more Ethereals emerge nearby, so you tell the manager you rescued to take cover...
- (Enter combat)
- (Open Tutorial [Companion Character Intro] Ye Shunguang)
- (Open Tutorial [Character Intro] Dialyn)
- Dialyn: Hm? Judging by the way you fight... You're from Yunkui Summit, aren't you?
- Ye Shunguang: Wh—What...? Yunkui Summit...? No—No way...!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uhhh...
- (After defeating all enemies)
- (Talk to the Porcelumex Manager)
- Porcelumex Manager: Ugh, this is awful... Since you're the rescue team, get me outta here first!
- : Are there any more survivors ahead?
- Porcelumex Manager: H—How am I supposed to know! Just get me out of here first! Ow, my whole body hurts so bad, ow—
- Dialyn: You organized this start-up event or whatever it is and you don't know how many people there are?
- Dialyn: I've arranged for someone to escort you out. If you keep trying to mess around, I can't guarantee the coordinates I leave will be accurate–
- Porcelumex Manager: ...There... There's also a miner and a young man.
- : Saving lives comes first...
- : Let's keep moving!
- (After using Disintegration on the target)
- (Approach the Humble Miner)
- Humble Miner: You're here to save us, right!
- Humble Miner: I—I'm fine, I'm not badly hurt. But you need to help that young man, quick!
- : Young man?
- : Where...?
- Humble Miner: Right there! Look down and you'll see...
- Humble Miner: A kindhearted young disciple from Banyue Shifu's martial arts school came with us, doing his best to keep us safe.
- Humble Miner: He tried to help me, but ended up getting stuck at the bottom of this cliff! The Miasma's so thick down there, I don't dare go any lower... All I can do is wait here...
- : Don't worry...
- : We'll find a way.
- Humble Miner: Thank you! I'll leave it all to you guys!
- (Approach the designated area)
- (Enter combat)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Sacrifices? The Exaltists were wiped out. Why are these things still here?
"The Art of Interrogation"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
The Art of InterrogationVideo Summary: They confessed before I even get to work my interrogation skills?
Story Description: Interrogating the Exaltist remnants reveals that Sarah has ordered them to seek an ancient array, and she has gained the power to "return to the origin." The remnants almost let slip that Sarah is working together with Ye Shiyuan, but (WiseWise /
- Dialyn: The Exaltists? Hmm, I thought the Defense Force wiped them all out. Didn't expect to see stragglers here~
- Dialyn: Leaving loose ends like that isn't a good habit. Seems like this place's got more uninvited guests than I thought...
- Ye Shunguang: You there! Speak up! What are you doing here?
- Exaltist Remnant: Hmph... bunch of a snot-nosed brats...
- Ye Shunguang: ...You...
- After being ignored, Xiao'Guang looks a bit flustered.
- : (Back her up)
- : (Put on a fierce, intimidating look)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Better start talking, or we won't be so nice anymore!Better start talking, or we won't be so nice anymore! /
Talk now, or we'll stop being nice!Talk now, or we'll stop being nice!) - You are ignored again...
- Dialyn: Listen... friends, that's not how you interrogate someone. He's got the right to keep his mouth shut, you know.
- Dialyn: And that's fine. He can stay quiet. But if he can't show his worth, we can always hand him over to the Defense Force...
- Dialyn: Hey, you. I've heard that some folks in the Defense Force hate your kind with a passion. If you end up in their hands... by the time you're ready to talk, they might not be in the mood to listen...
- Dialyn: Right now, you're basically an employee trying to pay off your boss's debts after the company's already gone under... No matter how you look at it, you're the one taking the loss!
- Exaltist Remnant: ...Alright, alright, I'll tell you. Just don't tell them I said it...
- : Acting all ready to die a minute ago...
- : Giving up already, huh...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Erm... Weren't you acting all ready to die a minute ago...? Giving up already...
- Exaltist Remnant: I've had enough of living every day in fear! It's all because Lady Sarah suddenly decided we have to go searching for some ancient array!
- : Of course it's Sarah...
- : What kind of ancient array?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Of course it's Sarah... What kind of ancient array?
- Exaltist Remnant: *sigh* I'm not gonna lie... I've got no idea!
- Exaltist Remnant: We've been running around like headless chickens for days, no clue what we're even looking for.
- Exaltist Remnant: She just said to keep an eye out for anything that looked like it was hundreds of years old or didn't belong here!
- Exaltist Remnant: H—Honestly... I don't think she even knows what she's looking for herself...
- Exaltist Remnant: What rotten luck... I thought joining the Exaltists would turn my life around, but not long after I signed up, the Overseer died. And now I'm just running and hiding, living in fear...
- Exaltist Remnant: You know what? Just hand me over to the Defense Force already. I'm done!
- : Don't give up hope.
- : You can still turn a new leaf.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... don't give up hope. You can still turn a new leaf and start over.
- Exaltist Remnant: Start over? Hah. The only ones starting over are the Sacrifices Lady Sarah reverted back...
- Dialyn: Wait. Sacrifices "reverted"? What do you mean?
- Exaltist Remnant: Oh, that's... complicated. After Overseer Mevorakh died, the Creator gave Lady Sarah some kind of power... I saw it with my own eyes — she turned several Sacrifices back to normal. No trace of corruption at all!
- Exaltist Remnant: She called it... uh... "return to the origin."
- : (In the visions...)
- : (Senior Ye said Sarah freed him from his nightmares...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (In the visions, Senior Ye said Sarah freed him from his nightmares... She must've used the same power.)
- Exaltist Remnant: Stuff like that's way above my pay grade. But ever since Lady Sarah inherited the Creator's authority, she's gotten more and more mysterious. No one knows what she's up to. The only one still tagging along with her is that gloomy guy...
- Ye Shunguang: Hmm? Who's she with?
- : (Could it be...)
- : (Senior Ye...?)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((Oh no... Could that be...)(Oh no... Could that be...) /
(...! Oh no... Could that be...)(...! Oh no... Could that be...)) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): *coughing*...!
- Fairy: Master, your heart rate just spiked to 140 BPM — that's "caught-red-handed" stress levels. Your brainwaves are showing intense activity in the "panic topic-change" zone.
- Fairy: If you try to change the subject now, your pitch will rise by 15% and your speech speed by 40% — credibility predicted to drop below baseline.
- Ye Shunguang: ...(WiseWise /
BelleBelle)? - : Saving lives comes first...
- : Let's question him later...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Um... we should prioritize saving people. How about we just restrain him for now and question him after?
- Ye Shunguang: ...Yeah. What matters now is finding the trapped people. I'll hold him in place for the time being.
- Dialyn: Well then... let's keep moving~
- Dialyn's smile lingers — faint, knowing, but she doesn't oppose your decision.
- (Approach the designated area)
- (Ongoing)
- Ye Shunguang: The path is blocked by rubble...
- Dialyn: That's a massive piece of rubble... Let's take a look around.
- (Interact with Rubble Obstacle)
- A huge boulder is blocking the tracks, with what appears to be flammable ore scattered around. Maybe you can try using Disintegration to detonate the flammable ore.
- You don't have enough flammable ore here... but that minecart over there is packed with it.
- First, activate the tracks to transport the minecart here, then blast through the obstacle by detonating the flammable ore inside the cart.
- (Open Tutorial Mine Cart)
- Pull the track switch lever to set the correct route.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Looks like we need to pull the lever first to activate the right track.Looks like we need to pull the lever first to activate the right track. /
Looks like we need to pull the lever first to activate the right track.Looks like we need to pull the lever first to activate the right track.)
- (After pulling the Minecart Lever)
- Get close to the minecart's side and interact with it to start it up.
- Ye Shunguang: Then we need to push the minecart to the rubble, right?
- (After starting up the minecart)
- When the minecart reaches the destination on the correct track, use Disintegration to detonate it.
- (After detonating the minecart)
- Dialyn: The trapped person should be inside.
- Ye Shunguang: Better use Disintegration again~
- (After using Disintegration on the target)
- (Talk to Ning Qian)
"Martial Arts Apprentice"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Martial Arts ApprenticeVideo Summary: A touching reunion netween friends old and new.
Story Description: The group rescued Ning Qian, a disciple of Ban Yue's martial arts school. Ning admitted that he'd wanted to help but had overestimated himself: he got separated from the workers and ended up trapped on his own.
- Ning Qian: Thanks for saving me back there! I'm Ning Qian. How should I address you all?
- Dialyn: Rep 2493, Dialyn here~ No need to thank me — though if you really want to, feel free to hop on the TOPS' website, navigate to the bottom right corner, and click "Contact Us," to send a nice little thank-you email~
- Dialyn: Don't make the title too dramatic though, or the system might flag it as spam. Hmm... something like, "Commendation: Perfect Service from Cross-Department Rep 2493" would be perfect. What do you think?
- Ning Qian: ...Huh?
- : My friend here...
- : She likes to joke around...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Ahem, uh... don't mind her. She was just joking... She, uh... she works at TOPS, you can just call her Dialyn.Ahem, uh... don't mind her. She was just joking... She, uh... she works at TOPS, you can just call her Dialyn. /
Ahem, my friend here was just joking... She... she works at TOPS. Just call her Dialyn.Ahem, my friend here was just joking... She... she works at TOPS. Just call her Dialyn.) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): I'm (WiseWise /
BelleBelle), disciple of Yunkui Summit, now training at Suibian Temple. This is my friend Xiao'Guang — she's a mystic too... - (ProtagonistProtagonist): And this is my assistant Eous. We heard people were trapped in the Miasma here, so we came to help.
- Ning Qian: I see. It's rather embarrassing to admit, but some miners had asked Shifu for help, saying they needed protection while recovering valuables in this area.
- Ning Qian: Shifu happened to be away at the time... So when I heard the Miasma in Lemnian Hollow was receding, I thought maybe I could handle this myself. After all, I've trained under him for some time now.
- Ning Qian: But I underestimated how dangerous it was. I got separated from the miners, and ended up trapped here myself...
- Ye Shunguang: The Shifu you mentioned... was it Banyue Shifu?
- Ning Qian: ...Yes. Do you know him?
- : Yes, we know him.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): We do! Not long ago, he helped me and my companions get through some big trouble. Helping his disciple now is the least I can do.
- Ning Qian: I see, what a coincidence... It's not safe here, we should go. The Hollow's unpredictable. Please, be careful.
- (A small cutscene plays as Zhao is revealed at the back)
- (Ongoing)
- Ning Qian: I'm not very skilled, but I'll do my best not to slow you down...
- Ye Shunguang: Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Another pair of hands is always going to be helpful.
- (After using Disintegration on the target)
- (Reach the designated area)
- (Enter combat)
- (Ongoing)
- Dialyn: More of these annoying creatures...
- Dialyn: Our time playing hooky is valuable too!
- (After reaching the third wave)
Close Call
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Close CallVideo Summary: A touching reunion netween [sic] friends old and new.
- Dialyn: It never ends!
- Dialyn: I'll handle you all at once!
- Dialyn: I'm right here~
- ???: After hearing countless voices of the dead...
- ???: Why not... listen to your inner voice...
- Voices of the Dead: Ugh... It hurts...
- Voices of the Dead: Help... Please, help me...
- Voices of the Dead: Why? Why me?
- Ning Qian: We're saved...
- Ning Qian: It's Banyue Shifu!
- (Open Tutorial [Character Intro] Banyue)
- Ye Shunguang: ...!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Banyue Shifu always shows up right on time!
- Banyue: Fret not. I am here.
- (After defeating all enemies)
- Banyue There are more evil creatures lurking over there.
- (After using Disintegration on the target)
- (Approach the designated area)
- (Enter combat)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Just as I thought, there's more to deal with!Just as I thought, there's more to deal with! /
Just as I thought, there's more of 'em!Just as I thought, there's more of 'em!) - Banyue: It is no issue, he is not much of a threat. Keep yourselves safe.
- (After defeating all enemies)
"Reunion"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
ReunionVideo Summary: A touching reunion netween [sic] friends old and new.
Story Description: Banyue and Ye Shunguang reunited as old friends. Dialyn revealed that Ye Shunguang was the master of the Qingming Sword. (BelleBelle)/(WiseWise) was shocked and worried about the sword's side effects, but Ye reassured that she was fine because she carried a sword case crafted by Yixuan to protect herself.
- Banyue: Is everyone okay?
- Ning Qian: Shifu...
- : We're all good.
- : And even better now that you're here.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Thanks for stepping in, Banyue Shifu! We feel much safer with you here~
- Dialyn: Thank you... for helping out.
- Banyue: Miss Dialyn, your aura seemed shaky when I arrived... Is there something on your mind?
- Dialyn: It's nothing...
- Ning Qian: Sorry, Shifu... I acted rashly. I thought I could save people, but I only ended up putting everyone at risk.
- Banyue: Don't do it again. Tomorrow morning, you owe me three hundred strikes on the practice dummy.
- Ning Qian: Yes, Shifu!
- Banyue: I've told you before: "Your fists must be able to defend your self before they can save others." Compassion only counts if it's as solid as your punch.
- Banyue: Rendering assistance beyond your strength is a second disaster. You reached for the drowning and became the stone pulling them down.
- Ning Qian: Yes, Shifu. I'll remember this and accept my due punishment when we return.
- : (Banyue Shifu is usually so humble and gentle...)
- : (But he sure is strict with his disciples...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Banyue Shifu is usually so humble and easygoing. Who would've thought he'd be such a strict teacher? Very different from Yixuan Shifu.)
- Ye Shunguang: Banyue Shifu... Do you... still remember me?
- Banyue: Yes, Xiao'Guang. I saw you when I arrived. But, when facing an enemy, all distractions must be put aside...
- Ye Shunguang: Right... "Facing an enemy is like holding water in your hands — one crack and it all spills."
- Ye Shunguang: That's why, no matter how strong or weak your opponent is, you must give full focus... That's something my brother and I learned from you when we were little.
- Banyue: It has been some time since I've seen you last. You've grown taller, and your heart is as bright as ever.
- : So, Xiao'Guang, you were...
- : You were once Banyue Shifu's student?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Xiao'Guang, were you Banyue Shifu's disciple?Xiao'Guang, were you Banyue Shifu's disciple? /
Wait! Xiao'Guang, were you Banyue Shifu's disciple?Wait! Xiao'Guang, were you Banyue Shifu's disciple?) - Banyue: ...I don't consider myself worthy of being called a true master. I only showed Xiao'Guang and her brother a few basic moves before they went to train with Yixuan Shifu.
- Banyue: Now I just run a martial arts school, teaching people how to fend for themselves. That's all.
- Ye Shunguang: You're far more than that...
- Ning Qian: You're a disciple of Yixuan Shifu from Yunkui Summit? I've heard your sect is full of gifted mystics. It's an honor to meet you!
- Dialyn: Oh, Yunkui Summit~ When we were fighting earlier, I couldn't help noticing your sword case. It looks very interesting...
- Dialyn: Ye Shunguang of Yunkui Summit... inside that case must be the Qingming Sword, right?
- Banyue: ...
- : Qingming Sword?!
- : Xiao'Guang, you...!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): The Qingming Sword?! Xiao'Guang, you...! Then that means...
- Ye Shunguang: ...Why are you looking at me like that?
- : Yixuan Shifu once told me...
- : About Qingming Sword's risks...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Yixuan Shifu told me about the side effects of the Qingming Sword... (After all that fighting you just did, are you feeling alright?After all that fighting you just did, are you feeling alright? /
You just did all that fighting! Are you feeling alright?You just did all that fighting! Are you feeling alright?) (*sigh* This is all my fault...*sigh* This is all my fault... / This is all my fault...This is all my fault...) I shouldn't have let you come with me on this rescue mission without knowing the full story first... - Ye Shunguang: Hey, relax... See? I'm fine!
- Ye Shunguang: Shifu must've told you all the scary rumors about this sword, but probably didn't mention the sword case, huh?
- Ye Shunguang: Don't worry. This case is something Shifu crafted after years of research. It keeps me safe from the sword's... "price."
- Ye Shunguang: I can channel the case to defend myself. As long as I don't break the seal and draw the blade itself, there's nothing to worry about!
- : ...Really?
- : That's hard to believe...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Really?
- Ye Shunguang: It's true! If you don't believe me... you can ask Banyue Shifu!
- Banyue: Yes... that is what Yixuan Shifu has explained.
- : (Sigh a breath of relief)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Phew... That's a relief. I was worried my recklessness had put you in danger...Phew... That's a relief. I was worried my recklessness had put you in danger... /
Phew... you scared me! I thought my recklessness had put you in danger...Phew... you scared me! I thought my recklessness had put you in danger...) - Banyue: Even so... Xiao'Guang, you should always be cautious.
- Ye Shunguang: Yes, I will! Please relax. Shifu had me train in seclusion over and over to reinforce the effects of the case. Otherwise, I wouldn't be standing here in one piece right now~
- Ye Shunguang: Speaking of which... I have a small favor to ask. Please keep my presence in Waifei Peninsula a secret.
- Banyue: Did you sneak down here?
- Ye Shunguang: Yes...? But this isn't the place to talk. Let's leave this place first, and then I'll explain everything to you...
- Dialyn: Oh my, sorry to interrupt... I stepped out for a moment only to witness a touching reunion, but my supervisor's probably about to show up.
- Dialyn: I've got some things to take care of, so I'll head out and let you enjoy your reunion~
- : Thanks for today.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Thank you so much for today, (Dialyn.Dialyn. /
Dialyn!Dialyn!) - Dialyn: Getting you all into my debt's gotta be a pretty solid performance boost, huh? Don't forget to leave me a good review, everyone...
- Dialyn's petite figure gradually fades from sight...
- Ning Qian: Shifu, we've rescued everyone who was trapped, so shall we...?
- Banyue: Yes, let's head out.
- The sound of everyone's footsteps fades into the distance, but Dialyn, who left earlier, returns from the way she came, with a knowing yet slightly mischievous smile on her face...
"Heretic"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
HereticVideo Summary: A killing machine... should be brought to justice.
Story Description: Dialyn hears the voice of one of the Exaltist remnants begging Sarah for mercy. The voice talks about Ye Shiyuan and his lack of devotion.
- At this moment, Dialyn hears some unusual voices of the deceased coming from up ahead...
- "No... No... Lady Sarah... I'm begging you, have mercy! Please!"
- "Why...? why...?"
- "That Ye Shiyuan... you think he was truly devout enough?!"
- "You knew it all along... you knew that he—"
- The pleas for mercy came to an abrupt end.
- Dialyn: Oops, looks like I've stumbled upon some secrets again~
- Dialyn: The mission comes first. Let's wait and see how things play out~
- (Ongoing)
- Dialyn: Heheh~ Next up... we're off to see that impatient supervisor.
- (Talk to Zhao)
"Commission Target"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Commission TargetVideo Summary: A killing machine... should be brought to justice.
Story Description: Dialyn discussed her mission with Zhao — to recover the killing machine Purge Unit - Type Zero, which once suppressed Miasma and now serves as Banyue's core.
- Zhao: How does it feel to play the role of a "warm-hearted person"?
- Dialyn: Hehe, I'm not warm-hearted — just trying to get some good reviews to boost my performance, and helping out my new friends along the way.
- Zhao: You're really getting into it... As your colleague, I would like to remind you not to forget about the task.
- Dialyn: The task... Do you mean from TOPS or the boss?
- Zhao: You're a cunning one... As Krampus's Judge, whose orders do you truly follow? Whose will do you carry out? Can there be any other answer?
- Dialyn: I'm just joking. You're always so strict, Senior Zhao~ I'll retrieve "that thing" myself. So, did my kind-hearted senior come all this way to lend me a hand?
- Zhao: Lend you a hand? Heh... Even as colleagues, there has to be some sort of "exchange." Since the boss allows my code of conduct, I won't act without the chance of receiving something in return.
- Dialyn: Just as I expected~ Don't worry, I don't intend to owe you a favor so lightly... After all, you are a "meat-eating rabbit," Senior Zhao.
- Zhao: Hehe, good, you understand. If you mess up your mission, cleaning it up will cost extra... you'd better start soon to avoid... complications.
- Dialyn: I have no intention of giving up my own target. But... I'll have to wait a little longer.
- Zhao: Wait for what? Don't forget, when I checked its operation logs, I confirmed—it's the Purge Unit - Type Zero, or in other words, the killing machine designed to suppress Miasma.
- Zhao: Haven't you also visited the place where TOPS deployed it all those years ago, and confirmed the "truth," as you call it...?
- At these words, Dialyn lowers her gaze, and her smile vanishes entirely.
- The scent of blood fills her mind, her gaze sinking into a cold, scrutinizing stare...
"Slaughterer"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
SlaughtererVideo Summary: A killing machine... should be brought to justice.
Story Description: After receiving the mission, Dialyn went to the site where TOPS had once deployed Banyue. Using her ability to "hear the dying voices of the dead within the Hollow," she confirmed that Banyue had once massacred civilians without discrimination. Zhao urged Dialyn to finish the job quickly, but Dialyn shared new intel that she had heard a strange, never-before-heard sound echoing through the Hollow...
- Dialyn slowly walks through a stretch of long-silent ruins within Lemnian Hollow alone.
- The silent rubble echoes with endless resentment and wailing in her ears—
- Fearful Warning: It–It's coming! R—Run! Hide!
- Child's Call: Mommy... Mommy...
- Hysterical Scream: Don't kill me! No, no!
- Futile Resistance: Get away! Get away!
- Desperate Plea: Help! Help! Save us!
- Curse of Despair: Retribution will come! It will!
- Questioning in Defiance: Why? Why me?!
- Struggling Last Words: A beastly face... You're... a monster...
- Dying screams pierce her eardrums, like shards of glass scraping against her nerves. A blast erupts amidst the chaos, tinged with the smell of rust, and the sharp curse crashes to the ground, gouging a searing hole in her mind.
- Thick, viscous wails flow forward, and the halved words severed by slaughter, like barbed anchors, drive deep into the listener's eardrums.
- When she closes her eyes, the voices of the dead clamp around the throat, turning into bruises that coil and spread... until the sole listener seems to taste the blood in her own throat.
- Drawing herself away from recent memories, she lifts her eyes again, and the coldness that once swirled in Dialyn's gaze is gone.
- Dialyn: Don't worry, I'm not questioning the accuracy of your information, Senior Zhao~ It's just that there's yet another thing to chase down.
- Zhao: *sigh* What is it?
- Dialyn: Earlier in the Hollow, did you hear... any strange sounds?
- Zhao: ..."Hearing the dying voices of people inside the Hollow"—your ability certainly expands Krampus's intel network.
- Zhao: The boss will use anyone as long as it benefits Krampus, and I've got no objections to that... But tell me, are you showing off your ability in front of me right now?
- Dialyn: Ow~ It kinda hurts that my favorite senior is being so defensive with me... I'm not talking about the voices of the dead.
- Dialyn: ...It's my own voice.
- Zhao: H—Huh? Your own voice?
- Dialyn:Mm-hmm~ That's why I find it so interesting. Hearing strange sounds in the Hollow isn't anything unusual for me, but hearing my own voice... that's a first.
- Dialyn:Could it be... that I actually died a long time ago and forgot about it... and what stands before you now is nothing but a shadowless ghost—
- Zhao: You... should cut back on these lame jokes when you're on duty.
- Zhao: I'll look into what you mentioned. Just remember, stay focused on the main mission.
- Dialyn:No~ problem~ By the way, that Porcelumex idiot I saved... What are you planning to do with him?
- Zhao: Saving him did make your entrance more believable... But anyone who takes credit for acting on their own is always unpredictable.
- Zhao: And I don't like that kind of unpredictability...
- (A small cutscene plays as Zhao and Dialyn walk away, while the white flowers activate for a moment and then stop)
"Be Honest"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Be HonestVideo Summary: From now on, no more secrets. Pinky promise.
Story Description: (WiseWise /
- After leaving the Hollow with Banyue Shifu and the others, Xiao'Guang tells them everything that had happened...
- Ye Shunguang: ...I finally managed to finish training in seclusion, only to find out that Shifu, my brother, Senior Fufu, and Senior Pan were all away from the temple. I was soooo bored!
- Ye Shunguang: Since I haven't been back here for so many years... I wanted to come and see it for myself. I thought... if it were you, you'd understand.
- Banyue: ...Fine.
- Banyue: For now, Yixuan Shifu won't hear anything from me.
- Ye Shunguang: Really?!
- Banyue: But you have to promise me that you won't put yourself in danger or use the Qingming Sword. During the investigation, wherever you go, I'll go with you.
- Ye Shunguang: Banyue Shifu, you are the best! I promise!
- Ning Qian: By the way, what should we do with the Exaltist we captured... Should we hand him over to the Defense Force or...?
- : We can continue questioning him.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... We can question him a bit more first. But before that... Xiao'Guang, there's something I need to tell you.
- Ye Shunguang: I have something I want to ask you too. Since you spoke first, you go ahead.
- : About Senior Ye's whereabouts...
- : Actually, I have some leads...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Actually... Senior Ye... he didn't leave with Yixuan Shifu and the others...
- You tell Xiao'Guang about what you hid from her...
- Ye Shunguang: ...Phew... I was gonna ask whether you'd been keeping something important from me. You looked so nervous just now — I didn't expect it to be about my brother...
- Ye Shunguang: Sure, I can be a little reckless and all, but my brother's always been discreet and level-headed. If he made a choice like that, there must be more to it than it seems.
- Ye Shunguang: Since you were already looking into his whereabouts, let's go together and get to the bottom of this!
- Banyue: Mm. Shiyuan has always been careful in what he does, but in case something has gone wrong this time... I'll help you with the investigation.
- : Xiao'Guang...
- : You're not angry?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): So... You're not angry?
- Ye Shunguang: At first, I was a bit angry when I sensed you were hiding something from me... but I'm also relieved you didn't continue to keep it from me.
- : Sorry...
- : We were hesitant at first...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I'm sorry, Xiao'Guang. My (sistersister /
brotherbrother) and I were hesitant at first... but based on the information we have now, you deserve to know. - Ye Shunguang: I understand, you were just worried I might act recklessly. But don't worry—I promise, from now on, no more going behind your back!
- Ye Shunguang: Please promise me you won't hide anything from me anymore, okay?
- : I promise.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Alright, I promise, pinky swear.Alright, I promise, pinky swear. /
Alright, I promise! Pinky swear!Alright, I promise! Pinky swear!) - Ye Shunguang: Pinky swear! Now... let's ask the others for more information.
- Xiao'Guang's expression returns to normal as she turns to the captured Exaltist.
- Ye Shunguang: The person you just mentioned, the one always with Sarah, was it Ye Shiyuan from Yunkui Summit?
- Exaltist Remnant: Y—Yes! That's him! Just some outsider who defected halfway through, yet Lady Sarah trusts him more than any of us...
- Ye Shunguang: Defected...? Why did he... defect? Do you know?
- Exaltist Remnant: To meet the Creator, of course!
- Ye Shunguang: Then... What do you need the ancient array for? Aside from searching for the array, are there any other plans?
- Exaltist Remnant: Lady Sarah got her hands on some old, beat-up book. Ever since she brought it back from some market in Failume Heights, she's been obsessed. She ordered us to search for the array, said it's key to our audience with the Creator.
- Exaltist Remnant: As for anything else, I've got no clue! I'm not that high up the chain. I've been busting my back all this time, never complained, never quit, and still, I'm worse off than some guy who used to be our enemy... *sigh*
- Ye Shunguang: Why would my brother get involved with the Exaltists... and take part in such a dangerous mission...?
- Banyue: Perhaps he's already secretly contacted Yixuan Shifu and plans to wipe out the remaining Exaltists in one strike.
- Ye Shunguang: If that's the case... Why would Shifu possibly keep that from me and my seniors...?
- Ning Qian: Or perhaps... there's a reason he didn't tell Yixuan Shifu?
- : Do you know anything, Xiao'Guang?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): In the vision I saw, Senior Ye said he wanted to save someone... and that it was connected to his nightmares. He also said before that he hasn't slept well since returning to Waifei Peninsula. Xiao'Guang, do you know anything about this?
- Ye Shunguang: Nightmares... Has my brother... been having nightmares again? Sorry, I...
- : (Better ask later...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Xiao'Guang seems to have recalled something unpleasant. Better ask her about it later...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (I was just curious, and this info doesn't sound reliable. Let's focus on solid clues. Since Sarah went to the Porcelume Market, that's the best place to start.I was just curious, and this info doesn't sound reliable. Let's focus on solid clues. Since Sarah went to the Porcelume Market, that's the best place to start. /
I was just curious. This info doesn't sound too reliable anyway. Let's focus on something more concrete. Since Sarah was last seen at the Porcelume Market, let's start from there.I was just curious. This info doesn't sound too reliable anyway. Let's focus on something more concrete. Since Sarah was last seen at the Porcelume Market, let's start from there.) - Ning Qian: I can come along tomorrow and help you all ask around. Consider it my way of thanking you! I want to be the one to hand these Exaltist remnants over to the Defense Force.
- Banyue: That's fine by me.
- Ye Shunguang: Okay, thank you, Ning Qian!
- A moment later, after parting with everyone, Ning Qian doesn't hand over the person to the Defense Force as promised.
- Ning Qian: Get out of here, go far away, and find yourself a new life.
- Exaltist Remnant: You're... letting me go? Just who are you...?
- Exaltist Remnant: Are you one of Lady Sarah's people? Did she send you to help me?
- Ning Qian: Heh... You were played like a fool. Did you really think she cared for you?
- Exaltist Remnant: Played... Wh—What's that supposed to mean?
- Ning Qian: That woman... she's too obsessed with the Creator. There's no way you can trust her.
- Ning Qian: Looks smart on the surface, but might just be another pawn being played like a fiddle.
- Ning Qian: But... I don't think that person will succeed either... They seem to be living for others too, not worth my sympathy.
- Exaltist Remnant: ...Wh—What on earth...? Pawn? "That person"?
- Ning Qian: Someone who actually thinks I'm worth trusting... Whatever, why am I even telling you all this?
- Ning Qian: Just go. Forget about the Exaltists and everything that happened today. No need to thank me. I simply have no choice myself, so I wanted to try giving you another choice...
- Ning Qian's expression remains unreadable as he watches the stumbling yet light-footed figure disappear into the crowd.
- And over at Suibian Temple, after a day of commotion, everything has finally settled into silence...
- (SiblingSibling): So Banyue Shifu and Xiao'Guang knew each other from way back when...
- (SiblingSibling): Xiao'Guang's far stronger than the ordinary person, and now with Banyue Shifu, we should totally be able to guarantee everyone's safety. That'll make things way easier.
- : About the Qingming Sword...
- : I'm still worried...
- (SiblingSibling): (Yeah, I get you...Yeah, I get you... /
Yeah, I get what you're worried about...Yeah, I get what you're worried about...) I mean, look at what happened to Yixuan Shifu's sister and all those sword masters that came before. Having your memories, senses, and even your life drained away... that's way too heavy a price to pay... - (SiblingSibling): But since Yixuan Shifu placed a seal on the sword case, she must have discovered more about the side effects of the Qingming Sword. For now, let's just trust in Shifu!
- (SiblingSibling): From now on, we should be more careful. It's best to avoid letting Xiao'Guang get into any dangerous situations where she'd need to draw her sword.
- : Tomorrow's investigation...
- : Hope we can find some new clues...
- (SiblingSibling): (Yep, for sure we will!Yep, for sure we will! /
For sure!For sure!) Oh right, Xiao'Guang's guest room is all set up. We referenced Fairy's lifestyle preference analysis report... The other seniors at the temple helped out a lot, along with Belion and Bolion. - (SiblingSibling): Go and check on (Xiao'Guang!Xiao'Guang! /
Xiao'Guang.Xiao'Guang.) When we first came to Suibian Temple, Senior Ye and the other disciples were super sweet to us. (Now it's our turn to give Xiao'Guang the VIP treatment!Now it's our turn to give Xiao'Guang the VIP treatment! / Now it's our turn to treat Xiao'Guang to the best.Now it's our turn to treat Xiao'Guang to the best.)
Gentle Words and Quiet Rest
- (Talk to Ye Shunguang)
- Qingyuan: Everyone pitched in to perfect the place. Hope you like it, Xiao'Guang.
- : Do you like the room?
- : Anything else you need?
- Ye Shunguang: Wow, you managed to make this place so neat and beautiful in just one day... I really can't thank you all enough. Everything's perfect, I love it.
- Qingyuan: Just call me Senior Qingyuan like Junior (WiseWise /
BelleBelle) does. She told me you're really interested in our training at Yunkui Summit. Since we've got this connection, we at Suibian Temple will naturally show you proper hospitality. - Ye Shunguang: Thanks, Senior Qingyuan! Being with everyone makes me feel so much more at ease. It's totally different from traveling alone.
- Ye Shunguang: I heard... this place used to be even livelier. It'd be so much better if everyone were here.
- : Then you can just stay here without worrying.
- : You can wait for them all to come back.
- Qingyuan: Yeah, Xiao'Guang, make yourself at home! If there's anything you need, or if you want to go shopping or grab a bite, just ask me or (WiseWise /
BelleBelle). - Ye Shunguang: Okay! Then this is my little home in Failume Heights now!
- Qingyuan: You both must be exhausted today, right? Why not get some early rest?
- After saying goodnight, Senior Sister Qingyuan goes to rest.
- Ye Shunguang: Everyone's so thoughtful... Too bad I can't reveal my identity right now. Once I find my brother, I'll definitely make a proper apology to all my fellow disciples.
- : Don't worry too much, Xiao'Guang.
- : I'll help you find your brother.
- Ye Shunguang: I would never doubt my brother's intentions, I'm just worried about his safety... So please help me investigate!
- Ye Shunguang: You've worked hard today, so go get some rest soon.
- : Good night.
- : See you tomorrow.
- Ye Shunguang: Night! See ya tomorrow~
- (Talk to (SiblingSibling)
- (SiblingSibling): (So, how'd Xiao'Guang like the room?So, how'd Xiao'Guang like the room? /
So, did Xiao'Guang like the room?So, did Xiao'Guang like the room?) - : She said everything's good.
- : She really likes it.
- (SiblingSibling): (Actually... hehe, I prepared some casual clothes for Xiao'Guang based on Fairy's lifestyle preference analysis report. I gotta ask her to try them on whenever the right opportunity comes~Actually... hehe, I prepared some casual clothes for Xiao'Guang based on Fairy's lifestyle preference analysis report. I gotta ask her to try them on whenever the right opportunity comes~ /
Looks like Fairy also prepared some casual clothes for Xiao'Guang on your behalf. When the right opportunity comes, you should ask Xiao'Guang to try them on and see if she likes them.Looks like Fairy also prepared some casual clothes for Xiao'Guang on your behalf. When the right opportunity comes, you should ask Xiao'Guang to try them on and see if she likes them.) - : Thank you, Fairy.
- : Let's make it a surprise for Xiao'Guang.
- (SiblingSibling): (Yeah!Yeah! /
Right.Right.) But first we need to find out where Senior Ye is. Sarah went to the Porcelume Market, and since it's got something to do with some ancient (tometome / tomestomes), maybe you and Xiao'Guang can go to the antique shop tomorrow and ask around. - (SiblingSibling): I'm so curious about that ancient tome... (WhateverWhatever /
AnywayAnyway), let's leave it for tomorrow. Time to get some (rest!rest! / rest.rest.)
"Primordial Truth"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Primordial TruthVideo Summary: Will Their power free her from its chains and restore her true freedom?
Story Description: Revealing his true hidden power, Ye Shiyuan spoke with Sarah about using an array to awaken the Creator. Sarah admitted that her obsession with meeting the Creator came from her desire to establish an ever-standing "order."
- Meanwhile, on the other side...
- Sarah: Heh... so this is the side you've been hiding. I bet the people around you never had a clue.
- Sarah: Should I call them adorably oblivious, or applaud your flawless performance?
- Facing Sarah's gaze, Ye Shiyuan walks out from the shadows, his expression calm.
- Ye Shiyuan: I never intended to hide this power from them. I just... never found the right moment to tell them.
- Ye Shiyuan: Ever since I returned to Waifei, the longer I was trapped in that nightmare, the clearer this form became...
- Ye Shiyuan: Tell me, why is it that after you "erased" my nightmare, I can't hide this form anymore?
- Ye Shiyuan: Though... I suppose it does make it easier to move unnoticed.
- Sarah: You should know better than anyone... It's not that I did anything to you—this power has always been the "truth" you've been suppressing.
- Sarah: My authority comes from the Creator, so it naturally returns all things to their true state.
- Sarah: Just like what I demonstrated to you before, I made those Sacrifices return to their purest state.
- Sarah: Now, they're just aimless drifters—mindless, memory-less... poor, lost things wandering without purpose.
- Sarah: Surely by now you understand my goal isn't meaningless destruction. The Creator can reshape the natural order and lay bare the truth itself.
- Sarah: They see your suffering, your talent, and feel pity for your plight. Perhaps the power you and your sister share... is more similar than you think.
- Ye Shiyuan: ...Hah, "similar"... I would have preferred if that sword had chosen me from the start...
- Sarah: What a good brother~ But since the sword chose her, perhaps it also reflects the "truth" she's been suppressing...
- Sarah: All the while, the sword is consuming her. One day, it'll eventually turn her into the coldest blade.
- Sarah: The Creator is different. Their power doesn't take—it gives. They can restore her true freedom, completely severing the connection between the sword and your sister, freeing her from its chains.
- Sarah: And you... will also be freed from the nightmare forever.
- Ye Shiyuan: If it means saving Xiao'Guang... I'll help you awaken this "Creator" of yours.
- Ye Shiyuan: What about you? Why are you helping me... or should I ask, what is your wish in all this?
- Sarah: I've already answered many times—for true peace... an unbreakable, ever-standing order.
- Sarah: I still remember every one of the Creator's words of wisdom from when I was young, when I read them for the first time.
- Sarah: "...Man prides himself on his cage, treating it as if it was order. But their laws are like sandcastles, easily washed away by the tide..."
- Sarah: "Their principles like spiderwebs, scattered by the slightest breeze... their existence like a firefly's, extinguished at the slightest touch..."
- Sarah: "...But when the Creator's call resounds, there shall be no more extinction, for the seeds of conflict will be erased..."
- Sarah: "No more decay, for the arrow of time shall be stilled; no more suffering, for the restless heart shall be steadied."
- Sarah: "...When They descend, the tongues of those who quarrel shall be frozen, the arms of sword-wielders hung in midair, and the hearts of the greedy turned to crystal—"
- Sarah: "Absolute, eternal, unmovable... all coalesced in that clearness."
- Sarah: Look at this world—birth and death, love and hatred, power rising and falling, civilizations waxing and waning. Even without the Hollows, chaos and disorder would still fester, like maggots feeding on detritus.
- Sarah: I've realized that the Creator is the answer that can end all of this.
- Ye Shiyuan: The answer, huh... I hope you're right. Now, I've told you the location of the array, when are you going to take the next step?
- Sarah: Soon... Just a little longer. That Sacrifice, that flawless listener, is guarding this area. The purifying ritual to summon the Creator must go off without a hitch.
- Sarah: Power... We need even more power to break through this miserable barrier...
- Sarah: I can feel the Creator's decree resonating with my own longing. They are there, somewhere, a grand, cold, flawless will... so close to us...
"Pending Redemption"
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Pending RedemptionVideo Summary: Hold on a little longer... Just a little longer...
Story Description: Deep within the Hollow, a lone Bangboo seems to be waiting for salvation.
- The night grows heavy, and deep within Lemnian Hollow, something unknown is stirring in the darkness...
- A mysterious Bangboo is there, standing alone in the shadows.
- Its little hands are clasped together, as if it's praying.
- ???: Hold on a little longer... Just a little longer...
- ???: Very soon... salvation will come...
- A night of uproar and secrets silently sinks into the deep darkness.
As morning light spills across the land, Suibian Temple welcomes a new day and Ning Qian, who brings news for everyone. - Ning Qian: I went to Porcelume Market this morning to ask around. Ginger from the antique shop said he remembers seeing that woman in red.
- Ning Qian: She brought a severely damaged ancient tome to Ginger, saying she wanted to restore it.
- : An ancient tome, I knew it...
- : What kind of ancient tome was it?
- Ning Qian: Not sure yet. Ginger said that since the ancient tome was severely damaged, it was a difficult job, so he recommended it to one of his old customers who's obsessed with collecting antique books — Bargainer Biao.
- Ning Qian: I got his address, so we can try our luck and pay him a visit, but Ginger also said he's met some trouble lately and might not be in the best mood...
- : Let's go ask first.
- : Let's go give it a try together.
Other Languages
| Language | Official Name |
|---|---|
| English | Dark Tides Rising |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 暗潮涌动 |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 暗潮湧動 |
| Japanese | 渦巻く暗流 |
| Korean | 음모의 움직임 Eummoui Umjigim |
| Spanish | Marea tenebrosa |
| French | Montée des eaux sombres |
| Russian | Эти воды темны Eti vody temny |
| Thai | คลื่นใต้น้ำ |
| Vietnamese | Sóng Ngầm Dâng Trào |
| German | Dunkle Strömungen ziehen |
| Indonesian | Gejolak Arus Gelap/Gejolak Gelombang Gelap |
| Portuguese | Marés Ocultas |
Change History
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