Who is the Merchant in No-Man’s Wharf? A Comprehensive Guide to Lonesome Gavlan

The merchant in No-Man’s Wharf is Lonesome Gavlan, a unique and often quirky character in Dark Souls 2. He stands out not just for his peculiar appearance and mannerisms but also because he’s the only merchant in the game who purchases items from the player. This makes him incredibly valuable throughout your playthrough. Gavlan is first encountered in No-Man’s Wharf, but his travels take him to other locations, expanding his role beyond this early game area.

Lonesome Gavlan’s Initial Location and Role

Gavlan is initially found in No-Man’s Wharf, on the second floor of a building teeming with Dark Stalkers. To reach him, you’ll need to navigate through the treacherous wharf, battling several enemies along the way. His location isn’t particularly hidden, but it’s well-defended. Upon your first meeting, Gavlan will express his primary interest: buying your unwanted items. He doesn’t sell anything at this point, making him solely a purchaser. While he has a fondness for poison-related items, he buys just about anything you have in surplus.

Gavlan’s most prominent feature is his role as the only vendor who will buy items from you. The ability to sell items is crucial for acquiring souls which are used for leveling up and buying other goods from the various merchants throughout the game.

Gavlan’s Relocation and Subsequent Appearances

After your initial interaction, Lonesome Gavlan disappears from No-Man’s Wharf and relocates. He is not permanently gone, so you are able to do some trading after a while. You can find him in two other locations as you progress:

• Harvest Valley: Gavlan can be found in one of the first caves in the poison mist pit in Harvest Valley. This area requires some navigation, and it is easy to miss him unless you are thoroughly exploring. Look for a small entrance along the side of the wall as you navigate the toxic waste. It’s easy to miss.

• Doors of Pharros: Gavlan’s final location is in the Doors of Pharros, up the stairs outside of the Gyrm’s Respite bonfire. Once he moves here, he will stay permanently. This area offers easier access to him than the poison swamp in Harvest Valley.

It is important to note that his inventory and function remains consistent throughout all his appearances. He will always be willing to buy items from you, and he will not sell anything.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lonesome Gavlan

Here are some common questions players have about Lonesome Gavlan, designed to help you better understand his role and whereabouts.

1. Where exactly is Lonesome Gavlan in No-Man’s Wharf?

Gavlan is located on the second floor of a building, accessible after fighting through several Dark Stalkers. It’s one of the few buildings you can enter as you traverse the Wharf. His location is near a bell that you have to ring.

2. Why is Lonesome Gavlan important?

He is important because he is the only merchant who buys items from the player in Dark Souls 2. This makes him essential for converting unwanted items into souls, which are crucial for character progression.

3. Does Lonesome Gavlan sell any items?

No, Lonesome Gavlan does not sell items. He only buys items from the player. This can be confusing to new players who are accustomed to merchants who both buy and sell.

4. What kind of items does Gavlan buy?

Gavlan buys nearly all items, including equipment, upgrade materials, and consumables. He does seem to express a particular liking for poison items, but this doesn’t affect the items he purchases.

5. How do I make Lonesome Gavlan relocate from No-Man’s Wharf?

Gavlan will automatically relocate after you first speak to him in No-Man’s Wharf. His move is triggered by the dialogue, and there is nothing extra you need to do.

6. Where does Lonesome Gavlan go after No-Man’s Wharf?

After leaving No-Man’s Wharf, Gavlan first relocates to a cave in Harvest Valley. This is in the first poison mist pit area. He will then move to Doors of Pharros, where he remains permanently.

7. Is Lonesome Gavlan’s presence in No-Man’s Wharf optional?

No, you must encounter Gavlan in No-Man’s Wharf to initiate his relocation to other parts of the map. Meeting him here is not optional for completing his questline.

8. Can I encounter Lonesome Gavlan in No-Mans Wharf after he leaves?

No, once Gavlan leaves No-Man’s Wharf, he will not return to that location. You’ll need to find him in either Harvest Valley or Doors of Pharros to continue doing any trading.

9. What is the significance of the Doors of Pharros location for Gavlan?

The Doors of Pharros is Gavlan’s final and permanent location. He will stay there once he arrives, providing a consistent place to sell your items.

10. What happens to Lonesome Gavlan if you do not meet him in No-Man’s Wharf?

If you skip No-Man’s Wharf (via the bird’s nest after the Pursuer fight), you’ll miss his initial encounter, but you will still be able to find him in Harvest Valley and Doors of Pharros. You will be behind though, as he will not have bought your items.

11. What should I prioritize selling to Lonesome Gavlan?

Any surplus items that you do not need should be sold to Gavlan. This includes extra armor, duplicate weapons, crafting materials, and consumable items.

12. Does Lonesome Gavlan’s prices change based on the items or his mood?

No, Gavlan’s prices remain consistent regardless of the type of item you’re selling or his dialogue options. This means the most effective thing to do is sell as much as you can.

13. How does Lonesome Gavlan’s location impact my gameplay?

His initial location in No-Man’s Wharf and subsequent move to Harvest Valley and Doors of Pharros impacts gameplay by providing consistent access to sell unwanted items for souls to help you with progression. It will save you from throwing items away and potentially wasting valuable items.

14. Is it necessary to sell items to Lonesome Gavlan to progress in the game?

While not mandatory for the story, using Gavlan to sell items is crucial for efficiently acquiring souls and progressing your character. It’s highly recommended for all players.

15. Is Lonesome Gavlan considered a fan favorite NPC in Dark Souls 2?

Yes, Lonesome Gavlan is considered a fan favorite because of his unique service as the sole item purchaser, his memorable quotes, and his quirky demeanor. His presence is crucial to the progression of the game for any players, and he has made himself a fan favorite.

Understanding Lonesome Gavlan and his role as a merchant is essential for any player navigating the world of Dark Souls 2. By knowing his locations and appreciating the unique functionality he provides, you’ll be able to make the most of your journey through Drangleic.