The tension and haunting beauty of Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly draw players deep into its chilling narrative, with endings that reward patience and curiosity. Among the multiple conclusions lies a particularly elusive one, the Sprouting Wings ending, which requires unlocking Sae Kurosawa’s secret second side story. This quest extends the lore around Sae, Fatal Frame 2’s antagonist, and offers players a richer, more nuanced understanding of her tragic past—if you can navigate its prerequisites and puzzles.
Sae Kurosawa 2 Side Story Walkthrough
Starting this hidden side story depends heavily on steps you’ve already taken in previous runs and your current progress. Here’s what needs to be in place before you can begin:
- Complete the Promise Ending in an earlier playthrough.
- Finish Sae’s first Side Story during your current New Game+ session.
- Reach the final chapter of the game.
Take note that the game erroneously lists “Sae Kurosawa 3” as a requirement, but no such side story exists. Completing Sae’s initial side story earlier in the same playthrough is non-negotiable because it won’t appear during the final chapter if not done beforehand. If you’re using chapter select to jump around for endings, make sure you revisit prior chapters and complete Sae’s first story there before advancing.
Once all conditions are met, head to the Kurosawa House’s Main Hall and equip your Exposure Lens. There, you’ll encounter a Remnant of Sae along with a journal clue pointing to the Storehouse — the site where Itsuki was held captive throughout much of the game.
In the Storehouse, another Remnant of Sae awaits your camera, accompanied by a journal entry that guides you next to Misono Hill. At the village gate, you’ll find one last Specter of Sae who must be photographed to proceed.
After the final Specter disappears, you’ll receive the game’s ultimate journal alongside Sae’s Sparkling Spirit Stone. This mystical charm, combined with one from Mayu Amakura’s side story, is essential to unlocking the coveted Sprouting Wings ending that adds depth to Fatal Frame 2’s haunting tale.