Where Winds Meet: How to Finish Shadows in Bloom Quest

Shadows in Bloom is an intricate side quest that seamlessly integrates rooftop chases, social puzzles, puzzle-solving, and rather dramatic uncovering in Kaifeng. 

Below is an organised, simplified Walkthrough that maintains simplicity in guiding you through the quest without making it an actual to-do list.

Unlocking the Secrets of “Shadows in Bloom”

Before the quest becomes available, two side quests must be completed: New Guest in Kaifeng and Gathering of Heroes. Once the zones Kaifeng and Heroic Assembly are available, talk to the Wayfarer in Kaifeng City. Open the Exploration menu, select the quest from Side Stories, and check the box.

There is a quest marker near Velvet Shade. Fast travel to Caomen Avenue, and then proceed to the waterfront area, where you will encounter a crowd of people. A disciple from Nine Mortal Ways will show up, ask for Aunt Han, and run away. As he runs, the quest will start.

Also Read: Where Winds Meet: Qinghe and Kaifeng Boss Locations

Hunting Down the Disciple at Velvet Shade

The discipline is something that you have to follow through rooftops and poles through a short traverse sequence. Once you apprehend him, he reveals that an enigmatic list relating to the Faceless Ones must be decoded, which leads you further into Heroic Assembly’s affairs.

He hands out an ensemble from the famous musician Jiang Yi before departing.

Disguising Yourself as Master Jiang Yi

When asked, wear Jiang Yi’s attire. At the Heroic Assembly, you are questioned by the manager over your identity. Select the response that affirms you as Master Jiang Yi. You then face a musical assessment led by Songstress Bai Rong.

You’ll have to repeat the short melody playing the drums. The order will be:

Once done, come forward to speak to the Boatman to gain access to Revelry Hall, which will initiate another cutscene.

Discovering all Seven Clues at Revelry Hall

The majority of the quest involves searching the three floors of Revelry Hall for clues. There are challenges on each floor, but there are no challenges in the area of combat.

First Floor Clues

You’ll gather three clues in this location. The first is gained from a performer’s list of boards after conversing with an NPC nearby. The second is received after defeating the Pitch Pot competition with Hua Jieyu. The final clue is obtained using the pipa rhythm Mini-Game, where the timing requirements are the only thing that needs to be obeyed for success.

Second Floor Clues

Next, you will be presented with a debate challenge using cards, and you have to respond using Jia Wenqu. Select active and aggressive answers to make progress faster. Afterwards, go outside to the balcony and use Celestial Seize to steal a special list from Fu Rong. If you don’t have that skill, come back later when it is unlocked.

Third Floor Clues

The last two clues are upstairs. The first reward is won by dancing with Wen Zixuan, so you must choose the first dialogue option to receive it. The final clue is gained from listening to dialogue in which Sister Qiang’s queue, peonies, and a wealthy guest are mentioned.

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Entering the Locked Chamber

After gathering all the clues, a commotion ensues. A servant obstructs a private door, denying you access. Don’t bother dealing with him. Simply go out onto the veranda and proceed along the edge. There’s a side entrance allowing you to sneak in unseen.

• Within the room, evaluate the following:
• Powder falls on the floor
• Spilled wine
• Unconscious person
• A fallen pipa

All these observations are part of a deduction puzzle. Make proper connections between observations and deduce that the next location is Nimbus Tower.

Nimbus Tower & The Booklet

Move north to Nimbus Tower and go upwards until the area is filled with pink smoke. A fight triggered against a solo attacker ensues, but this is easily dealt with by performing some combinations.

After the battle, find the Yin-Inscribed Booklet in proximity to the veranda. Fire is nearby for incendiary purposes. Use it to burn the tome. It will render your character unconscious. It will lead to the concluding phase of your story.

Talking to Qin Ruolan and Completion of Missions

You find yourself in a peaceful area of Nimbus Tower, where Qin Ruolan is waiting. Talk with her and explore all the dialogue options to see the truth about the envoy and the ongoing events. She will promise her future support and grant the status of an honoured guest at the Heroic Assembly.

The search ends with a fireworks scene by the lake, which wraps the whole story up quite nicely.

Also Read: Where Winds Meet: How to Beat Lucky Seventeen Boss

Shadows in Bloom Quest Rewards