While exploring the upper cliffs near the exit, there is a ledge where the Shade ponders the "end." If you choose to jump off the cliff, the Shade falls to its death.
This ending requires you to abandon your duty and find a way out of the subterranean kingdom. THE LONGING - ALL ENDINGS (400 Days, Good, Bad, Secret)
There is a variation where if you try to leave the caves and then return to wake the King after the timer has already hit zero, or if you perform certain "disloyal" acts before the end. While exploring the upper cliffs near the exit,
You simply wait until the 400-day countdown ends. You can speed this up by making the Shade’s home cozy (reading books, drawing, playing instruments, or keeping a fire going). You simply wait until the 400-day countdown ends
There’s something hauntingly beautiful about just sitting there for 400 days and doing exactly what you were told, even if the result isn't a 'happy' one.
The King may react with even more coldness, emphasizing that your 400 days of service were tainted by your desire to leave. Community Perspectives
Users often debate which ending feels the most "right" given the game's themes of patience and loyalty.