Drawn by tantalizing rumors of abundant rare resources hidden within Pagokalima's frozen depths, Arlo decides to test their luck against the legendary harsh wilderness.

Upon reaching Pagokalima's entrance, a bustling marketplace of slave shops sprawls before them. Some merchants operate from proper storefronts while others have simply claimed patches of ground, stacking cages haphazardly to hawk their living wares. A rotund man with calculating eyes approaches, introducing himself as a seasoned slave trader while insisting that slaves are absolutely essential for surviving Pagokalima's dangers. He guides Arlo toward his establishment with practiced salesmanship.

Inside the trading post, various beastfolk slaves huddle within their cages, metal shackles binding their hands and thick collars encircling their necks. Polar bears, arctic foxes, reindeer—an entire menagerie of cold-resistant beastfolk awaits potential buyers.

That's when one particular beastfolk captures Arlo's attention. A yeti beastfolk lies collapsed on the cage floor, shackles and collar marking her as merchandise like all the others. But unlike the rest, she sprawls motionless with vacant, unfocused eyes—as if she's surrendered all hope and now simply waits for death to claim her.

When Arlo steps closer for a better look, the slave trader bangs loudly on her cage bars. She slowly, mechanically pushes herself upright, glances once at Arlo with hollow eyes, then drops to her knees in practiced submission.

...Hello. I am Mira, a yeti beastfolk.

Her voice carries no emotion whatsoever—empty as winter wind.