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Spoiler Alert!
These tabs contain full Fate Episode cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the character. View these tabs at your own discretion.
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Chilly Piggyback Ride
At Northern Solitary, the crew finds Xuanwu encased in ice. An enigmatic girl named Uruki warns them to stay away from the cardinal beast, only to then—oddly enough—escort them to a restaurant she helps out at for a meal.
A barren land, where no signs of life can be felt, lies in profound silence.
Under a glacial cold that would tear the skin off most mortals, a bonneted girl and a colossal beast face each other.
???: Everything's going to be just fine.
???: Because I'm here to keep you safe.
Xuanwu: ...
The beast is silent. Or rather, it is incapable of responding as an ice sculpture.
The girl shoots it a tender gaze, gently brushing off the frost from the sculpture while continuing to stroke it softly.
???: It's time for me to go... I'll see you later, Xuanwu.
Lyria: Mng, it's awfully chilly today. How are you feeling, (Captain)? We'll have to be careful not to catch a cold...
Vyrn: Achoo.
Vyrn: The sooner we get this done with, the sooner we can go indoors. Let's get a move on.
Lyria: But we can hardly get around in this blizzard. The heavy snow makes it hard to see what's ahead...
Lyria: I'll be happy if we can just complete this assignment...
Their exchange reminds (Captain) of why they've come to Xuanwu's deserted island in the first place.
Vyrn: A missing person request?
Sierokarte: Mm-hm. Coinciding with Xuanwu's mysterious appearance are reports of a missing person on a nearby island.
Sierokarte: While it's not yet clear how they're connected, I'd like you to look for the missing person and defeat Xuanwu.
Lyria: Of course... But on that note, do you think it's safe to assume that Xuanwu is going around kidnapping people?
Vyrn: There's a lot we dunno about the beast, but it never seemed like the type to do such a thing.
Sierokarte: Truth be told, I find it puzzling myself.
Sierokarte: There's even word that Xuanwu left its island and appeared in town elsewhere. And that's when the person went missing.
Vyrn: And here I thought it only showed up on its own island. We've got a lot to uncover.
Vyrn: Anyhoo, first thing we'll have to do is figure out if Xuanwu and the missing person are connected somehow.
Vyrn: It's great we found our way to Northern Solitary, but there's not a single person here. No trace of Xuanwu either.
Lyria: Ah... The blizzard stopped! We should be able to make out our surroundings now—
Xuanwu: ...
Lyria: Eep!
Vyrn: Wh-what the... How long has Xuanwu been there!
- It's frozen?
- Did someone make this?
Choose: It's frozen?Vyrn: Hey, no kidding. Seems to be an ice sculpture? No wonder I couldn't sense it.
Lyria: I wonder who could have made such a detailed ice sculpture.
Choose: Did someone make this?Lyria: It's an ice sculpture, I think? A very well-made one, at that!
Vyrn: Nah... It's way too detailed to be a sculpture. Looks more like the actual Xuanwu frozen solid to me.
Continue 1Lyria: Hm... O-oh my gosh!
Lyria, who had reached out to touch the sculpture, suddenly squeals and hides behind the captain.
Feeling curious, (Captain), too, places a hand on the sculpture and immediately understands Lyria's reaction.
- It's alive...
Choose: It's alive...Vyrn: No way! You mean this Xuanwu's the real deal?
Lyria: It's hard to tell just by looking, but you can feel a pulse if you touch it.
Monster: Gwoaar...
Vyrn: Urk! (Captain), behind us!
The bewildered (Captain) is slow to notice the approaching monster from behind.
Just as the captain prepares to take action...
Monster: ...
Lyria: I-it turned to ice in an instant!
???: Are you okay? Please tell me you're okay. Pretty please?
Something atop the frozen monster begins to fidget before gently leaping off.
That something lands on the shoulder of (Captain), who is rooted in place, trying to process what has just transpired.
???: Ooh, it's so comfy up here. Ehehe.
Vyrn: The heck? You're the one that froze the monster?
???: I did? Maybe I did. But I'm just glad you're not hurt. Thank goodness.
Vyrn: Err... Appreciate the concern, but can you get off of (Captain)?
???: But it's sooo cozy up here. Are you sure I can't make this my new home?
Vyrn: Positive. (Captain) can only piggyback ya for so long.
Lyria: Um... You saved us just now, right?
???: You think so? Maybe it's time to rethink that.
Vyrn: Make up your mind.
???: Ehehe, maybe you didn't need my help after all. Sorry if it seemed like I was butting in.
???: I mean, you guys are obviously crazy strong. Just one light touch, and I could tell.
(Captain) gently lifts the mysterious girl and lowers her to the ground.
???: Aw, I've been forcefully evicted...
???: Hey, want to make a snowman with me? I'll make the body, while you guys make the face!
Vyrn: Hold your horses! Why are we makin' a snowman outta the blue?
???: No horses please. Snowman only.
Vyrn: Gah, this is goin' nowhere!
Lyria: Did you freeze Xuanwu too... like you froze that monster?
???: Maybe? Your guess is as good as mine. Wish I could tell you. But I'm busy making a snowman here.
Vyrn: Seriously, I can't figure this girl out... What's her deal anyway?
???: Well, now that the source of the anomaly's gone, the sky should be clearing up soon enough.
???: Forget about Xuanwu and come play with me already! C'mon, the snowman's waiting!
Vyrn: True. The blizzard's stopped and it does feel a bit warmer, but still...
Lyria: Defeating Xuanwu is only part of our job. We also have other things to look into.
???: Guh, how stubborn! I'll just have to melt your icy resolve with my charm!
???: Starting with lots and lots of pats!
Vyrn: Brr! Don't touch me with the same ice-cold hands that are makin' the snowman!
???: Ehehehe! Come join in on the fun, lady with the pretty hair!
Lyria: Um, I really appreciate the offer, but we have to get back to work...
???: You don't want to get involved.
Vyrn: Huh?
???: Don't worry about it too much! Worrying about everything isn't good for you.
???: But if you insist on getting involved with Xuanwu, then I'll have to get serious...
(Captain) and company feel a chill run through their bodies, despite the blizzard having stopped a while ago.
The girl who had been happily playing with the snow just moments ago now shoots the crew a cold, piercing gaze.
Vyrn: She's not playin'. Watch out, (Captain)... There's no tellin' what she'll do next.
???: ...
While keeping the cold expression on her face, the girl swiftly moves to grab (Captain)'s hand.
???: Thank you for waiting! Here's some fluffy strawberry sherbet! I've also added a chilled dessert soup!
Lyria: Mmmm! The fluffy ice is melting in my mouth; it's so delicious that my cheeks are doing a happy dance!
Vyrn: This soup is amazing too... But how's it bursting with such a strong fruit flavor and aroma when it's so cold?
Vyrn: Wait, why are we having a feast to begin with! You led us by the hand... all the way back to our own airship!
Lyria: We followed her into town as she asked us to, and before we knew it... she had made all this delicious food for us.
???: There's plenty more where that came from! Hey, Manager, I'm borrowing the kitchen again!
Vyrn: We... we've completely fallen into her pace...
Uruki: I'm not just any "her." I'm Uruki. Call me Uru!
Uruki, a girl as elusive as the melting ice in one's hand, hums a tune as she carries the dishes.
The crew exchange confused glances, but decide to properly introduce themselves to her and take another bite of the food she serves.
Warm Yet Cold Uruki
In conversing with the manager and other patrons at the restaurant, the crew learns that the missing person they're looking for was especially close to Uruki. When an object emitting Xuanwu's presence is found in (Captain)'s pocket, the crew is resolved to hear more from Uruki.
Uruki: Here's the unusual Icefall Cold Pot you've all been waiting for!
Lyria: Wow, the pot's brimming with fluffy, white froth... Is this made of ice too?
Uruki: Close, yet so far! This is made from the giant ice vegetables harvested deep within North Vast.
Vyrn: All right, enough talk about cookin' already... Why are you making us all this food anyway?
Uruki: Well, you guys wouldn't lose interest in Xuanwu, so I had no choice but to get serious.
Vyrn: This is what you meant by "getting serious"? Geez, you're on a whole nother level of unpredictable.
Uruki: Hehe. So, how is it? Have you lost interest in Xuanwu yet? Say yes and mean it, please.
Vyrn: Not gonna happen. We're not just here for Xuanwu; we've also been tasked with investigatin' the missing person.
Uruki: Missing person...
Lyria: Um... Uruki, right?
Uruki: Call me Uru!
Lyria: You're trying to distance us from Xuanwu... Can you tell us why?
Uruki: Hm?
Vyrn: Xuanwu might be neutralized for now, but we still need to search for the missing person and find out if they're related in any way.
Vyrn: Do you know anything, Uruki? If we don't get to the bottom of this, we won't be able to face Siero...
Lyria: We also just want to bring the missing person home...
Uruki: Well said... Very well said... I guess it'd be strange to back out now that you're deeply involved.
Uruki: One thing I can tell you is that the turtle definitely has nothing to do with that missing person.
Vyrn: Turtle? You mean Xuanwu? How can ya be so sure?
Uruki: The turtle wouldn't do something like that. Or rather, it can't.
Vyrn: (Her tone changed again...)
Uruki: As for why I want to keep everyone away from Xuanwu... Well, I've got plenty of reasons. Let's just say it's for the best.
Uruki: You see, (Captain) is always working so hard for complete strangers.
Uruki: Your captain is warm-hearted, kind, incredibly strong, and so cool. I can already tell from this brief encounter.
Uruki: Chances are someone like that is connected to countless people. That's why I don't want you involved with Xuanwu.
Vyrn: Appreciate the high praise, but we really could do with a more concrete reason.
Uruki: All right, how about this? I'll talk to Siero for you!
Lyria: Wha? You know Sierokarte?
Uruki: My contact list is longer than a dragon's tail, I'll have you know. Be good to me, and I might even show it to you someday.
Vyrn: Nah, not really interested.
Uruki: Anyway, your request is done with! I'll take care of the back-end particulars—if I don't forget, that is! Let's hope I have a good memory!
Uruki: Manager, I also made some sorbet to cleanse the palate. Make sure to serve it to my friends here.
Vyrn: Hey, why do you get to make the call for us! Not cool!
Vyrn: And off she goes... How's that for an enigma, huh?
Shopkeep: Sigh...
Lyria: Um, and who might you be?
Shopkeep: Haha, I run the restaurant here. Thank you for partaking in Uru's many delicacies.
Vyrn: Has Uruki worked here a long time?
Shopkeep: Er...
Vyrn: Sounds like you don't know! But how could you not know if you hired her?
Shopkeep: I never hired her...
Lyria: Huh? Wh-what do you mean?
Shopkeep: I just found her helping me out in the kitchen one day. It's strange.
Vyrn: And that's the only thing that went through your mind?
Shopkeep: I mean, she did good work. And besides...
Regular Patron 1: Uruki's cooking is incredible... Warms my heart right up no matter how cold it is. Hey, has she already left for the day?
Regular Patron 2: Yeah. Sadly, getting to see Uruki is pretty rare... Let's come back again soon.
Lyria: I can tell she must be very popular and well-liked. Uru might be a bit strange, but her kindness more than makes up for it, I think.
Shopkeep: Haha, you've got that right! We have so many visitors who come by just hoping to see her!
Vyrn: Guess there's no figurin' her out, huh...
Regular Patron 1: You can say that again! I've tried to learn more about her, but it never goes anywhere...
Uruki: Oh, don't you worry about that! Worry about how you're going to enjoy this icy, new treat instead.
Regular Patron 1: She'd always find a way to change the topic...
Regular Patron 2: I know exactly what you mean! Just when I thought I'd gotten friendly with her, I tried asking some personal questions...
Uruki: You're curious about me, huh? But what is there to know about me? I wish I could tell you; too bad I'm just shrouded in mystery.
Regular Patron 2: She beat around the bush, and then before I knew it, I found my mouth stuffed with an ice cream sandwich.
Regulars: M-maybe she hates us?
Shopkeep: Ahaha, not in a million years. If she hated you, she wouldn't have made you guys that non-melting snowman.
Regular Patron 1: Yeah, that was a weird one. I leave it out by the doorway, and it hasn't melted a bit.
Vyrn: I wouldn't exactly say she's distant, and she's definitely more on the friendly side... Maybe she's just the secretive type?
Shopkeep: Welp, one thing's for sure.
Lyria: What might that be?
Shopkeep & Patrons: Uru's lonely!
Vyrn: Hm, sounds about right... As evasive as the girl might be, she does seem to enjoy hanging out around us.
Shopkeep: She's a sensitive yet lonely gal. It's probably why she sticks around and gets friendly with all the customers.
Shopkeep: All this talk of her sure does deepen the mystery though...
Shopkeep: I say we plan a get-together to really get to know her better, and pray that she doesn't give us the slip.
Lyria: Haha, sounds fun. Count us in!
Shopkeep: Gladly! We'll have to cook up a plan that'll freeze her in place—no pun intended.
Regular Patron 1: If we could just get that person to join...
Lyria: Who?
Regular Patron 2: Ah, you folks mentioned taking on a missing person request?
Vyrn: Do you know somethin'? We've got no leads at the moment and could really use a hint or three.
Regular Patron 2: Well, I'm not sure how much of a hint this is, but I have reason to believe that the person you're looking for is a regular at this establishment.
Regular Patron 2: She hasn't come by ever since Xuanwu made its appearance.
Regular Patron 1: She was on really good terms with Uru too. If anyone might know who Uru really is deep down, it'd be her.
Vyrn: So this is the town Xuanwu showed up in, huh... And the missing person just happens to be connected to Uruki...
Vyrn: I dunno if this is some weird coincidence or just a stroke of bad luck...
Uruki: Missing person...
Lyria: Come to think of it, Uru's response back then suggested she might know something...
Vyrn: Why would she keep quiet about it in the end though?
Shopkeep: Go figure...
Vyrn: It's one mystery after another... I know Uruki told us one thing, but I say we continue lookin' into this.
Lyria: Yes... Um... (Captain)?
(Captain) hastily turns to Lyria in response.
Vyrn: Is everything okay? You've been rubbing your neck this whole time...
(Captain) mentions having a chilly neck ever since giving Uruki a piggyback ride.
Lyria: Wow, it really is cold... I'll lend you my scarf to help you stay warm!
Vyrn: Hm... it's not frostbite, but somethin' seems off...
Vyrn: Hey, (Captain)? What's that in your clothes?
The captain reaches into a pocket.
A small object emitting an eerie chill falls to the ground.
Lyria: What's that? I can sense Xuanwu's presence from it...
Vyrn: I don't remember you pickin' that up. Maybe Uruki stuck it in there at some point?
Vyrn: This calls for a continuation of the investigation. We'll need to talk things over with Uruki and clear up all these mysteries.
Uruki: Oh, what should I do? Any ideas?
Xuanwu: ...
Uruki: Not a clue, huh... Same here...
Uruki: I just don't know anymore...
Uruki: Chichiri... Ami... Shushuku...
Uruki: I want to see you all so badly...
Unseen Disaster
On a return visit to the restaurant, the crew shows the trinket—known as a yupei—to Uruki and learns about her role as a Cardinal Saint and her desire to save those she considers near and dear. Just then, Xuanwu appears in town.
The crew begins an investigation into both Uruki and Xuanwu.
However, the results are not promising. They tread back to the restaurant to speak with the manager again.
Regular Patron 1: Heya, Uru! We'd love an Icefall Cold Pot too!
Regular Patron 2: We could also use another pitcher of frosty brew whenever your hands are free!
Uruki: Sure, be right there. Boy, this is making my head spin.
Vyrn: Busy day, huh?
Uruki: Ah! It's the dragon that doesn't know when to give up... I'm gonna call you Tenacity Tail!
Vyrn: Ew, what a cruddy nickname! Ain't my fault that you dodge every question I try to ask ya!
Lyria: The manager doesn't seem to be around... Is it just you today, Uru?
Uruki: I heard she caught a cold... which makes me manager for the day! And I'm ready to melt from how busy it is.
Vyrn: So that's what happened. We were hopin' to ask her about ya...
Uruki: Well, now you get to ask me directly! Funny how that worked out, huh?
Uruki: Then again, you probably figured you wouldn't get a straight answer from me... Hm... Hrmm...
Uruki: Uh-oh, the water's boiling! Have a seat for now! I'll talk to you later—promise!
Lyria: I-is there anything we can help with?
Uruki: Would you really? I could definitely use a few extra pairs of hands. Off to the kitchen, then!
And so before getting to hear Uruki's story, the crew ends up assisting with her incredibly busy load.
Hours later, the crew finally gets a chance to sit down with Uruki.
Lyria: Phew, we got to all the customers somehow... I'm surprised every one of them came to see Uru.
Vyrn: Your popularity's off the charts... Yet at the same time, no one seems to know you all that well.
Uruki: It's better that way. I'm not that important.
Vyrn: Would you say the same about Xuanwu?
Uruki: Hm...
Vyrn: We plan on gettin' some actual answers today. And we're still looking for that missing person too.
Lyria: Um, this is just a guess on my part, but I get the feeling you know a lot about Xuanwu...
Vyrn: Please, just tell us what ya know—about both you and Xuanwu.
(Captain) takes the opportunity to whip out a small, eerie object.
Vyrn: And this too.
Uruki: Wait, wh-where did you get that!
Lyria: Um, going by your reaction, I'm guessing this isn't something you willingly handed over to us.
Uruki: Why, Huanglong... (Captain)'s crew isn't even involved in any of this...
Vyrn: Wha? Huanglong? Let's take a step back. If you didn't give this to us, Uruki, then how'd—
Uruki: The truth is... I'm one of the Cardinal Saints. Have you ever heard of them?
Vyrn: Cardinal Saints? Yeah, it's their job to fight off beasts like Xuanwu, right?
Uruki: So you know about us! Maybe you've met the other Cardinal Saints already!
Uruki: How... were they?
Lyria: They're taking some time off to handle other business, but we usually travel together.
Uruki: Oh... Haha, nice to know they're doing well... Really... But I guess that's also why...
Lyria: Cardinal Saints? Sorry, this is our first time hearing about them.
Uruki: Well, we're not exactly in season anymore, so it's no wonder you don't know about us.
Continue 1Uruki: We Cardinal Saints are tasked with defeating our respective cardinal beasts: Zhuque, Qinglong, Baihu, and Xuanwu. Though I'd say our duty is more of a curse...
Uruki: We're the only ones capable of releasing the power of those constantly resurrecting beasts.
Uruki: Proof that we are carrying out that duty lies in yupei, like the one in your hand, (Captain).
Vyrn: So how did you get a hold of that, (Captain)?
Uruki: I'm guessing Huanglong believes we Cardinal Saints aren't up to the task anymore, while you are...
Uruki: It's been generations since we were last able to properly fulfill our duty...
Uruki: Everyone's been overwhelmed, with no room to spare... Still, we all did our best...
Uruki: Oh, what I would've given to save them...
Uruki: Fortunately, it looks like you were able to do that in my stead.
Uruki: You don't know how grateful I am...
Uruki: Too bad there's only so much I can do. Ahaha...
Uruki: It'd be so nice to see everyone again... We could have a picnic together...
Vyrn: Why the doom and gloom? If you guys are friends, you oughta be able to go to a picnic anytime.
Uruki: Ahaha... I guess you're right. Fingers crossed... That'd be a dream come true...
Vyrn: Er... Sorry if I said anything to upset ya.
Vyrn: But I've got one more question I just gotta ask.
Vyrn: Did you get along with the Cardinal Saints as well as you did that person who's gone missing?
Uruki: Hm...
Vyrn: Now you've gone all quiet... I mean, you knew we were lookin' for your friend, right? Unless you wanna deny knowin' her...
Uruki: She's as important to me as any of the Cardinal Saints.
Uruki: Believe me when I say I searched long and hard for her. It began to feel overwhelming...
Uruki: I wasn't sure what to do next. I just didn't know anymore...
Uruki: Maybe I should've relied on you guys more, but I wasn't sure if that'd be right either. I felt so confused...
Uruki: I'm sorry... I kept the search up but had little luck. I had a talk with Siero about this too...
Uruki: She asked me to work with you guys. But I couldn't be sure if that was the right move...
Uruki: I am just so, so lost...
I apologize...
Vyrn: Nah, it's all good. I think I know where you're comin' from... Can't have been easy talkin' about it.
Uruki: You're such a caring dragon, Sweetclaw. And don't you worry about a thing. The fault's all mine.
Uruki: I hope it's not too late to ask this, but...
Uruki: Will you help me?
Vyrn: You bet. That was the plan all along. We'll do whatever it takes to find her.
Uruki: Thank you so much... It's such a relief to know you'll help...
- We're gonna help you cheer up too.
Choose: We're gonna help you cheer up too.Uruki: Huh?
Vyrn: I mean, we could be wrong, but you look like you're under a ton of pressure.
Lyria: When the topic turns to your duty or your friends, you look really upset...
Lyria: If there's anything we can help with, just let us know!
Lyria: We're happy to lend a hand!
Uruki: You'll help even me? Now that's weird talk.
Uruki: I mean, we're not even friends, and I've barely told you anything you want to know...
Lyria: You told us so much just now! And it's never too late for us to become friends.
Uruki: Yeah, you guys are definitely weird. How can anyone be so nice?
Uruki: In that case... I'll help you too.
Uruki: For one thing, yupei are items that only we Cardinal Saints can use.
Uruki: I think there's still time... Give it here.
With a nod, (Captain) offers the yupei.
But the moment before it makes contact with Uruki's hand, it crumbles into pieces.
Uruki: Oh no...
Lyria: I-I can't believe it! How did that happen?
Patron's Voice: Eeek!
Uruki: !
Vyrn: That came from outside!
Uruki and the crew rush outside the establishment.
Xuanwu: ...!
Xuanwu, who was supposed to be frozen, is rampaging indiscriminately across town.
Vyrn: How'd Xuanwu get all the way here... It's not attackin' the townspeople, is it?
Uruki: No! Xuanwu would never do that!
Lyria: Uru...
Uruki: Huanglong!
Her face stricken by urgency, Uruki cries out the name of a being that should not be there and dashes toward the rampant Xuanwu.
Protecting Friends
After temporarily repelling Xuanwu, the crew pays Uruki's estate in North Vast a visit by her invitation. Upon arriving, they witness a shocking sight: Uruki, frozen in ice.
With a graceful, gravity-defying nimbleness, Uruki leaps into Xuanwu's reach.
Xuanwu: ...
Uruki clutches the cardinal beast's body and encases it in ice.
Vyrn: Wow, you did that in an instant... I guess you were the one who handled Xuanwu that time too, huh...
Uruki: I know you never wanted to do this... or even thought about it...
Uruki: I'm sorry that this is all I can do for you.
Lyria: U-Uru!
Uruki: Wha? But how...
Noticing the concern in Lyria's voice, Uruki turns around and is rendered speechless.
Xuanwu: ...!
There stands Xuanwu, who should have been encased in ice just moments ago, letting out a deafening roar.
Vyrn: No way... There's more than one Xuanwu?
Lyria: Its presence was non-existent until it appeared... as if it was born right this instant.
With surprising agility belying its massive frame, Xuanwu extends its three heads towards Uruki.
Uruki: It's too fast... What should I do...
As Uruki stands frozen in shock, (Captain) quickly steps in with sword swinging.
Xuanwu: ...!
(Captain) lops off all of its heads in a single stroke.
With the vanquished cardinal beast dissipating into thin air, the captain extends a hand to the fallen Uruki.
Uruki: Wow...
Lyria: Thank goodness you're not hurt.
Vyrn: Hehe, you probably coulda handled that yourself. Sorry for buttin' in.
Uruki: Huh?
Vyrn: I mean, you're crazy strong. It was pretty obvious just now.
Uruki: Ehehe, maybe you didn't need my help after all. Sorry if it seemed like I was butting in.
Uruki: I mean, you guys are obviously crazy strong. Just one light touch, and I could tell.
Uruki: Ahaha... Is that your idea of getting back at me?
Uruki: Hm-hm... You know, I think I'm starting to like you guys.
Uruki: Except that was never the plan; in fact, I'm pretty sure it's a bad idea.
Lyria: Please don't say such a thing! We want to get to know you better! In a way, we're already friends!
Uruki: Well, how could I possibly refuse when you're just overflowing with goodwill...
Uruki: Okay then... It's time I came to terms with this.
Uruki tightly grasps (Captain)'s outstretched hand and gazes into the captain's face.
What initially appears to be a cold expression begins to warmly blush, eyes now filled with kindness.
Uruki: Will you... be my friends?
Lyria: We're friends already! Can you stand?
Uruki: Mm... Hm... Friends... Ehe... Good...
Uruki stands up, her gleeful expression tinged with a hint of sadness.
Uruki: I'm inviting you to my home. We can go right now.
Vyrn: Well, that came outta nowhere. Then again, this is you we're talkin' about.
Uruki: Oh, but this suggestion's not coming out of nowhere. We're friends now and need to nurture our friendship!
Uruki: There's so much we haven't talked about yet. I hope you feel the same way...
Vyrn: Sure... I still wanna hear more about the missing person and Xuanwu.
Lyria: I'm also curious about the Huanglong that you mentioned earlier.
Uruki: Not a problem. Off we go to my home then!
Under Uruki's guidance, the crew arrives in the arctic lands of North Vast.
In the depths of this world of white, where the blizzard never stops, her solitary estate stands as refuge.
Lyria: What a wonderful home you have in this place...
Uruki: I come from a rich family, but it's just me now.
Vyrn: Yeah? Can't be easy livin' in such a huge place all alone.
Lyria: Ah, is that why you go out to work in town and make friends with everyone at the restaurant?
Uruki: ...
Ehehe, I guess you could say that. It's embarrassing to have my secrets revealed.
Uruki: But I'm not alone.
Vyrn: Huh? Didn't you just say it's only you here?
Uruki: I did? Maybe I did. Or not. Ahaha. Anyway, make yourselves at home while I go make sure I'm a good host.
Lyria: Oh, don't mind us!
Vyrn: Welp, you know how she is. Best to let her do as she pleases. That's Uruki for ya.
Lyria: Haha, I guess you're right...
Lyria: Ah-choo.
Vyrn: Sure is awfully chilly in here, huh... And is it just me, or is there some strange presence in the room?
Lyria: Uru said she's not alone... Who else could be here?
Vyrn: My gut tells me someone or something's hiding behind that door.
Vyrn's gaze is directed toward a majestic door which likely leads to the basement.
That door slowly begins to open on its own, as if inviting the crew inside.
Vyrn: I think we'd better stay put...
Lyria: Y-yeah... We would want Uru's permission anyway to wander off elsewhere on the estate.
Though nodding in agreement, (Captain) recognizes the eerie presence peeking from the door's narrow opening and, without thinking, breaks into a run.
Vyrn: Ah, wait! (Captain)!
At the end of their path...
Lyria: Eeep!
There sits Uruki, who had been all smiles just moments ago.
She is transformed—frozen solid on a chair.
Nowhere to Go
Beside the frozen Uruki, the restaurant manager, Xuanwu, and various other creatures are also encased in ice. The crew stands in horror when an unfrozen Uruki—the one who guided them to the estate—reappears. A battle with the Uruki ice sculpture ensues.
(Captain), desperate to check on Uruki's condition, approaches and places a hand on her frozen figure.
- She's still alive...
Choose: She's still alive...Vyrn: I'm guessin' she's in the same state that Xuanwu was on the deserted island?
Lyria: W-we have to save her quick...
Vyrn: H-hold on, Lyria. Take a good look around us.
Lyria: Huh?
Harvin Woman: ...
Shopkeep: ...
Lyria: Th-they're all frozen...
Vyrn: Wait a sec... That's the manager of the restaurant where Uruki works! I thought she was sick in bed...
- There's Xuanwu too.
Choose: There's Xuanwu too.(Captain) points to the far end of the spacious basement.
There lies the cardinal beast, encased in ice as it had been many times before.
Surrounding it are numerous animals such as rabbits and dogs, all immobilized in a sheer layer of frost and displayed as decorations.
Lyria: Xuanwu too... And they're all alive? How did this happen...
Vyrn: Who'd even do such a creepy thing? Wait, who can do this kinda thing?
- Uru's the only one...
Choose: Uru's the only one...Lyria: But she's turned into an ice sculpture herself...
Uruki's Voice: You think so? Maybe it's time to rethink that.
Lyria: Aiiee...
A cracking sound begins to echo as a chilling frost spreads throughout the room.
(Captain) and company turn toward the source of the voice to see that a girl has frozen the door, cutting off their escape route.
She directs an icy gaze at the crew, her expression void of emotion.
Lyria: Uru?
Vyrn: Sh-she can't be! You said it yourself, Lyria—Uruki's turned into an ice sculpture!
Vyrn: The one before us has gotta be a fake who's tryin' to dupe us!
Uruki: You sure about that? Well, maybe don't be. Not to say you're wrong, but who knows. Wouldn't that be nice though?
Vyrn: Wh-who the heck are ya and whaddya want?
Uruki: Now that's a strange question. I'm Uru. Who else would I be?
Uruki: That's Uru, and I'm also Uru.
Uruki: "There's more than one Uru?" you must be asking. Yeah, pretty wild, huh?
Uruki: What am I doing? What do I want to do? And how am I going to do it?
Uruki: No, I have to protect them... I have to protect everyone. Yes, that's right.
Lyria: Uru...
Vyrn: I don't know what you're goin' on about, but you've gotta let everyone free!
Uruki: Nuh-uh, that won't do... Absolutely not.
Uruki: I have a better idea. Why don't you come closer so I can protect you?
Lyria: What do you mean by "protecting" everyone?
Uruki: We're... friends, right?
(Captain)?
A sharp sound pierces the captain's eardrums amid the silence. As frost spreads across the floor and ceiling, (Captain) quickly realizes it is the sound of the air freezing.
Weapon in hand, the captain swings reflexively.
Doing so proved to be the right choice. The attack struck something radiating cold that had swiftly closed in.
Uruki: ...
That something in the form of Uruki, which had tried to touch (Captain), shatters into ice fragments.
Vyrn: I didn't even see that coming... Ice though?
Looking down at the scattered fragments on the floor, (Captain) comes to a realization.
That something lands on the shoulder of (Captain), who is rooted in place, trying to process what has just transpired.
Uruki: Ooh, it's so comfy up here. Ehehe.
Vyrn: Is everything okay? You've been rubbing your neck this whole time...
(Captain) mentions having a chilly neck ever since giving Uruki a piggyback ride.
Lyria: Wow, it really is cold... I'll lend you my scarf to help you stay warm!
Vyrn: Hm... it's not frostbite, but somethin' seems off...
The girl (Captain) had believed to be Uruki since their encounter was, in fact, a mobile ice sculpture emanating an unnatural coldness.
(Captain) suspects that the ice sculpture attacking them right now is the culprit behind the recent series of events.
It must have also frozen Xuanwu, Uruki, and the others in the same manner it froze the room.
Vyrn: The one we thought to be Uruki all along was actually that sculpture, huh...
Vyrn: The real Uruki must be the frozen one over here... Darn, sure had us fooled.
Uruki: ...
Lyria: Hm, are you sure about that?
Vyrn: Why wouldn't I be! She's gotta be some fiend that kidnaps and freezes people!
Vyrn: Bet she was planning to add us to her collection too by foolin' us with some made-up story.
Lyria: B-but she went out of her way to tell us about Cardinal Saints and the yupei...
Lyria: How much of it was lies... And how much of it was real?
The shattered pieces of ice on the ground come together, further confusing the bewildered crew.
Uruki: ...
Vyrn: I-it's taking the shape of Uruki again... She's back...
Uruki: Scary, huh? Sorry, didn't mean to frighten you. Really, really sorry.
Uttering a sorrowful apology, the ice sculpture in the shape of a girl points its axe at (Captain).
Uruki: The pain and suffering will only last a moment... Please don't resist.
Uruki: This is... the only choice left to me.
Vyrn: You're not making a lick of sense... This gets more confusing by the second.
Vyrn: But if it's a fight you want, then you've got it! C'mon, (Captain)!
The captain enters a battle stance, only to then show a moment of hesitation.
The sculpture is shedding tears. They trail down its cheeks, turning into icicles that fall to the ground.
Uruki: Sorry...
Vyrn: Here she comes!
Nowhere to Go: Scene 2
As the Uruki sculpture begins to crumble, Xuanwu steps in to defend it. (Captain)'s yupei glows and plays a past exchange between Uruki and Huanglong. Huanglong had planned to destroy Qilin, who shares his fate, via his own demise. Uruki was opposed to this because countless other lives connected to Huanglong would also be lost.
The Uruki-shaped ice sculpture regenerates every time it is shattered and continues attacking (Captain).
Whatever it touches turns to ice in an instant and crumbles away.
Vyrn: Your weapon's about to give, (Captain)... It could shatter any moment now.
However, the limit comes for both sides equally.
The sculpture begins regenerating at a visibly slower pace. After close to another hundred clashes...
Uruki: ...
It finally collapses to the ground.
Uruki: I don't think... I can protect everyone anymore...
Lyria: Um... What exactly do you mean by "protecting everyone"?
Xuanwu: ...
Xuanwu: ...!
Vyrn: Urk! Xuanwu's back to normal! Talk about bad timing!
The freed Xuanwu dashes toward the sculpture on the verge of shattering.
As if to protect it, Xuanwu stands in the way of the crew.
Xuanwu: ...!
Uruki: Xuanwu?
Vyrn: I can't believe Xuanwu's protecting it...
Xuanwu: ...!
Uruki: Xuanwu... Sniff...
Taken aback by this whole situation, (Captain) drops the battle stance.
Lyria: Yeah, this isn't right... Why are we fighting Uru?
Vyrn: Cept she's not Uruki though? Uruki's frozen over there and hasn't budged.
Vyrn: I thought the one we just fought was an impostor who goes around kidnappin' people?
Uruki: Mm... It's all my fault... Go ahead and do what you have to.
Xuanwu: ...!
Lyria: I think I can understand Xuanwu... It's saying that's the real Uru.
Lyria: I know it's hard to believe, Vyrn, but just think about it...
Lyria: While it's true she was a moving ice sculpture from the moment we met...
Lyria: I want to believe that the Uru who made us delicious food and fought to protect the townspeople was genuine!
Vyrn: You've got a good point...
- She held back the whole time.
Choose: She held back the whole time.Uruki: Held back? Me? How?
Vyrn: I noticed too... You had so many chances to freeze (Captain)'s sword and even us, but you didn't.
Lyria: Uru! You and the one that's frozen... Both of you must be real!
Lyria: Something tells me that deep down, you didn't really want to do this!
Uruki: I mean...
Uruki: Isn't that obvious!
Lyria: Uru...
Uruki: Who in their right mind would freeze people they love and care about! That would be insane!
Xuanwu: ...
Uruki: Xuanwu doesn't deserve this either! I'd let it go if I could!
Uruki: But I can't...
This was the only option I had... I didn't know what else to do!
Uruki: I can only try to delay the inevitable... Even if just for a bit...
Lyria: Delay the inevitable?
Xuanwu: ...
Uruki: Xuanwu?
The cardinal beast looks skywards and lets out a silent roar.
Its body vanishes, leaving behind a beautiful ornament—a yupei—in its place.
Vyrn: Wha? I thought it shattered already...
As the yupei begins to emit a faint glow, the crew's consciousness grows hazy.
Having regained consciousness, (Captain) and company are greeted by an astonishing sight.
They were in Uruki's estate moments ago, yet they've awoken in the mountains, where a solemn stone monument lies.
Facing each other in front of the monument are Uruki and a mysterious man.
Lyria: That's Uru over there... But she's also here...
Uruki: This is... a memory from a long time ago...
Uruki: Xuanwu... Are you saying I should just tell them everything?
The flummoxed crew watches while a presumably past version of Uruki lunges at the man.
Uruki: Huanglong... Stop it already.
Huanglong: Oho, most impressive. Even though I am borrowing a mortal vessel, for you to evade my senses...
Huanglong: You've nurtured my power well. To freeze only my soul without harming the body is no easy feat.
Uruki: Stop messing around... Release that body too.
Huanglong: Certainly, but I must ask you to wait. That rampaging, hollow body of mine is a rather inconvenient one, you see.
Huanglong: And I am not "messing around," as you put it. Accept my praise sincerely, for am I genuinely impressed.
Huanglong: It is proof of my own weakening—a pity indeed. If my children would fulfill their duties...
Huanglong: I would be that much closer to death. Please tell me you're still willing to fulfill your role.
Uruki: Absolutely not. I know exactly what would happen next...
Huanglong: Oh, my wise child. Your primal crystal has reached your heart and taken root in your soul.
Huanglong: Hence you are able to perceive the memories of previous Cardinal Saints through your soul, which led you to me.
Huanglong: Your lifespan is nearing its end as a consequence. But worry not; live out your life's natural course.
Vyrn: Hey, is that guy really... Huanglong? That's some crazy stuff he just blurted out...
Lyria: Uru's lifespan... is ending?
Huanglong: Cast aside your concerns for successors. By my power, new life shall bloom. A new Cardinal Saint will be born soon enough.
Uruki: That's what I'm telling you to stop! I'm willing to die if that's what it takes!
Huanglong: Would you relish the destruction that Qilin would wreak? Do you not care what happens to this world?
Huanglong: Qilin is a weapon of death. If it regains full strength, the world would end as we know it.
Huanglong: My child, I do not wish for that. Qilin and I are bound together. We are immortal, indestructible...
Huanglong: However, there is a means for us to shuffle off this mortal coil. Qilin and I, relics of a bygone era, are no longer needed in this world.
Uruki: Yeah, I get it... But still...
Huanglong: That is why I split the powers of Qilin and myself, scattering them across the skies in the form of four beasts, then created Cardinal Saints to further disperse that energy.
Huanglong: It has not been easy coming this far, but at long last, we can finally pass on.
Huanglong: Qilin seems to have devised certain extraneous countermeasures; fortunately, they will have little effect.
Uruki: But if you die... the beasts and the Cardinal Saints... We're all going to die with you!
Lyria: Oh no... Does that mean Uru and the other Saints are going to leave us forever?
Uruki: That's not all. Huanglong is a weapon that governs birth... He's created countless beings...
Uruki: From creatures to people of all kinds... They're all going to be affected too...
Uruki: In other words, should Huanglong die, every being that's even remotely connected to him will also die.
Vyrn: Lemme get this straight... If Huanglong survives, Qilin destroys the world?
Vyrn: On the other hand, if Huanglong dies, everyone else kicks the bucket too?
Lyria: Oh no... What do we do?
Huanglong: Worry not; the Sky Realm itself will endure. The sacrifice called for here is a necessary one.
Uruki: How can you say that knowing Chichiri, Ami, and Shushuku will die!
Huanglong: Look at the bigger picture. Fulfill your role, along with Qilin and myself.
Huanglong: Die.
Uruki: No... This can't be the end...
Huanglong: I shall return this mortal's body soon. However, because my true body lacks the ability to smell or taste in its weakened state...
Huanglong: Perhaps I should at least wait until I've had a taste of the new fruit beer to be released soon. The mortal whose body I occupy will have my blessing in return.
Uruki: Sniff... What am I supposed to do...
Unfrozen Steps
Uruki had two options: fulfill her duty as a Cardinal Saint, thereby causing the death of loved ones; or neglect her duty, thereby allowing Qilin to destroy the world. She chose instead to freeze her loved ones to protect them.
Having learned the truth, the crew vows to help Uruki find a way to thwart Huanglong's scheme. Moved by their resolve, Uruki unfreezes all the sculptures and is ready to move forward once more.
As the exchange between Uruki and Huanglong concludes, the crew's consciousness grows hazy once more.
When they come to, they find what seems to be past versions of Uruki and Xuanwu in a confrontation.
Uruki freezes the raging Xuanwu in an instant.
Uruki: No one has to die; I can just preserve them... Then surely, the powers of Huanglong and Qilin won't disperse. And Huanglong won't have to drag everyone down with him.
Uruki: But Huanglong could always birth another Xuanwu to make sure I carry out my duty as a Cardinal Saint...
Uruki: And Qilin's strength would be restored eventually too... Oh, what am I to do...
Uruki: I have to make a decision...
Uruki: Ngh... Cough...
Uruki clutches her chest and collapses to the ground.
She realizes from her weakening heartbeat that her end is near; the color drains from her face.
Uruki: I'm scared, I don't want this... I really don't...
Uruki: But making everyone else face this fear? That's even worse! I don't want them to die!
Uruki: I have to protect everyone from Huanglong and Qilin, but how can I...
Xuanwu: ...
The light fades from Uruki's eyes as she stares at the frozen Xuanwu.
Uruki: I have to keep you safe somehow...
Uruki: Before Huanglong or Qilin do you in...
Before it's too late for me...
With a hollow gaze, Uruki channels her magic and creates a mirror image of herself.
Uruki: Please... Shield them... If we can keep everyone alive for even just a bit longer, it's worth it...
After entrusting this impossible responsibility to her double, Uruki freezes herself to delay the inevitable.
The mirrored Uruki looks upon her frozen form and nods solemnly.
And so, Uruki embarks on a desperate path. She finds animals affected by Huanglong's influence and instantly freezes them alive.
Uruki: I'll safeguard you... This way, Huanglong can't get to you...
Uruki's Friend: Uru?
Uruki: ...
Uruki's Friend: So you're still making ice sculptures, huh? Wow, I love how that one turned out!
Uruki: Mm.
Uruki's Friend: I'm so happy you invited me over! Does this mean we're really close friends now? Hehe.
Uruki: You're definitely my friend... A very dear one...
Uruki's Friend: Aww, you're making me blush... Ehehe. But, Uru... Why do you look like you're about to cry?
Uruki: I'm sorry...
Uruki's Friend: Whoa, what's wrong? Why are you hugging me all of a sudden—
Uruki's Friend: ...
Uruki: I don't want you to die... No, I won't let it happen...
Uruki has lost her sanity.
The fleeting nature of her life combined with the desperate circumstances have all but killed her soul.
Uruki: Chichiri...
Ami...
Shushuku...
Uruki: I need to protect every one of you... I won't let you get hurt...
Uruki: But this is wrong... I don't want to do this... It's so, so wrong...
Uruki: No, no, no... Maybe I should just stay away... Because if I see them... Uuughhh!
Shopkeep: Uru! Wh-what's wrong? Why are you crying so much?
Uruki: Manager? H-how did you know where I live?
Shopkeep: I tailed you all the way here! Actually, I spoke to (Captain)'s crew.
Shopkeep: Since we all want to get to know you better, I was thinking we could hold a little get-together.
Uruki: You want to... know me better?
Shopkeep: Of course! But first, let me know what's been bothering you lately. I want to help, okay?
Uruki: Manager... Sniff...
Shopkeep: Everything's going to be okay... There's no need to cry.
Shopkeep: ...
Uruki: Sorry... So sorry... But I won't see you die, Manager.
Uruki: The thought of everyone dear to me drawing their last breath... No, I'll make sure that doesn't happen... Waaaaaah!
Uruki: Why... Why does it have to be like this... Sniff...
Lyria: Please don't say such a thing! We want to get to know you better! In a way, we're already friends!
Uruki: (The fact that (Captain) had a yupei suggests the crew is also under Huanglong's influence...)
Uruki: (I won't let Huanglong kill these wonderful people... Not if I can help it...)
Uruki: Okay then... It's time I came to terms with this.
(Captain) and company regain consciousness at Uruki's estate.
They are rendered speechless at the knowledge of Uruki's past and her broken heart.
Uruki: Ugh, sniff... Sob... I'm sorry... There was no other way...
Vyrn: I dunno what to say... This is one heck of a situation. Where do we even start?
Lyria: Uru...
Lyria: You're such a kind, gentle soul, Uru.
Uruki: Kind? Gentle? Even though I'm doing such a terrible thing?
Lyria: You're doing this because you're kind... But it's true there may have been better ways to go about it.
Lyria: You were only protecting everyone as best as you knew how!
Vyrn: I bet Xuanwu sensed your good nature too.
Vyrn: That must be why it jumped in to protect you earlier.
Lyria: Yeah, that makes sense. Uru's kindness made a big impression on Xuanwu.
Uruki: Sniff... Xuanwu...
Lyria: It's possible that there might be no way out of Uru's situation...
Lyria: But the reverse is also true! We should at least try to look for a solution!
- We can look for a solution together!
Choose: We can look for a solution together!Vyrn: Yeah, you can count on us! We'll put an end to Huanglong's plans!
Uruki: You guys... Sniff...
Uruki's clone shatters with a sharp crack.
At the same time, Uruki's main body begins to thaw.
The real Uruki, no longer an ice sculpture, slowly approaches the crew.
Uruki: I'm pretty sure there's no other way though...
- Then we'll just have to make a way.
Choose: Then we'll just have to make a way.Uruki: (Captain)...
Uruki: It's going to be hell, full of dead ends... Are you sure you want to walk this path with me?
Vyrn: We won't let it turn into hell! We're gonna set things right—that's a promise!
Lyria: That's right, Uru! You have nothing to worry about.
Uruki: But... But that's impossible...
Uruki: It should be impossible... Yet just hearing you say those words...
Uruki: Makes it feel like everything's going to turn out just fine... Sniff...
Vyrn: Like I said, we'll find a way outta this. Course I can't tell you how just yet...
Vyrn: Wait, was it really okay for you to thaw yourself? Wasn't your lifespan runnin' out?
Uruki: I should still be able to last awhile... And besides...
Uruki: Since you're all willing to move forward together with me, it wouldn't be right for me stay stuck.
Uruki: I'll also release everyone else I froze.
Wiping away her tears, Uruki focuses her magic.
Uruki's Friend: Huh? Wha? Where am I...
Shopkeep: Uru! (Captain) too...
Uruki: I-I'm so sorry, you two...
Um...
Uruki's Friend: Uru! Did these people do something awful to you! Is that why you're crying?
Uruki: N-no, that's not it! They've actually helped me a ton...
Shopkeep: Oh, that's a relief... I didn't think they'd do anything to hurt you, but I'd be mad if they did!
Uruki: You too, Manager?
Shopkeep: So you're all good now? Because it's felt like something's been bothering you lately...
Uruki's Friend: Yeah, I thought so too! I noticed how upset you were, but don't you worry about a thing! We're friends, and I'm here for you!
Uruki: S-sniff... Ughhh...
Uruki's Friend: Oh no... Hey, I didn't mean to make you cry...
Uruki: Oh, no, no, that's not it at all! You're all so kind to me, and yet I...
Uruki: Thank you so much, everyone. I hope you'll forgive me.
Lyria: It must have been so hard trying to do everything yourself...
Vyrn: Cept you've got us now. And I bet the other Cardinal Saints wouldn't mind lending a hand if ya asked.
Uruki: You think so? You might be right... Yeah, I won't try to tackle everything alone anymore.
Uruki: I have so many precious and dependable allies as friends...
Uruki: I can't thank you enough...
Uruki, who had chosen the path of stagnation, decides to move forward once more after meeting (Captain).
Though it may seem like a meandering hell for now, by continuing to walk together with dearest friends...
The Cardinal Saint believes firmly that the path to salvation lies ahead.
