Finding the Filthy Woman in Demon’s Souls: A Comprehensive Guide to 5-2
Locating the Elusive Merchant in the Swamp of Sorrow
The Filthy Woman is a crucial merchant in Demon’s Souls, particularly for players seeking to acquire the valuable Stone of Ephemeral Eyes. She’s located in the treacherous Valley of Defilement, specifically within the Swamp of Sorrow (World 5-2). Finding her can be a bit tricky, as she’s not immediately visible upon entering the area. Here’s a direct and comprehensive guide to her location:
The Filthy Woman can be found shortly after the first fog gate in 5-2, just before entering the shanty town. After passing through the first fog gate in the Swamp of Sorrow, walk forward a short distance. Instead of proceeding directly into the shanty town, look to your right. You’ll find her standing near the edge of the swamp, typically accompanied by several Giant Depraved Ones in the immediate vicinity. It is crucial to note that she is only accessible if you are in Soul Form, which can be achieved by dying in human form.
It’s important to be cautious when approaching, as the enemies around her can be quite dangerous, especially for lower-level characters. Be sure to deal with them before engaging with the Filthy Woman to prevent interruption during trading. She sells the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes, a highly sought-after item for restoring human form after a character dies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Filthy Woman and Valley of Defilement
1. What exactly does the Filthy Woman sell?
The Filthy Woman primarily sells the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes. This item is essential for players who have died and are playing in Soul Form and wish to restore their Human Form. She also sells other minor consumables. However, the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes is her primary draw and the main reason players seek her out.
2. Why is the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes so important?
The Stone of Ephemeral Eyes restores your character to Human Form. Playing in Human Form grants you full health and opens up other game mechanics such as online invasions from other players. For some players, having full health and experiencing the game without the restrictions of soul form, is essential.
3. Can I buy the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes if I am in Human Form?
No, the Filthy Woman only sells the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes to players who are currently in Soul Form. This means that you need to die in your body form before being able to purchase her goods. Once you restore to human form, you have to die again to be able to trade with her for these items.
4. What are the dangers of the Swamp of Sorrow?
The Swamp of Sorrow is a challenging area filled with Giant Depraved Ones, Plague Babies, and other dangerous enemies. The swamp itself also slows your movement, making it harder to evade attacks. Be prepared for a slow, deliberate approach and plenty of combat.
5. Is there an easier way to get the Stone of Ephemeral Eyes other than buying it?
Yes, but it’s usually not as reliable. Some enemies, like the giant trolls and the Plague Babies in the area, can drop Stones of Ephemeral Eyes, albeit rarely. There is also a small island containing three stones, but it requires defeating three giant trolls to access. This farm method is tedious but it is still a method for acquiring this important resource.
6. Who is the first boss in the Valley of Defilement?
The first boss is the Leechmonger, a stationary mass of leeches that attacks with projectiles and melee attacks. This boss battle is more about positioning and using long-ranged attacks to counter his high regeneration rate.
7. What is the second boss in Valley of Defilement and how is it?
The second boss is Dirty Colossus, a hulking beast found at the end of the swamp. It’s a slow but powerful enemy with attacks that can inflict damage over time. Its armored plating makes it difficult for ranged attackers.
8. What is World Tendency, and how does it affect gameplay?
World Tendency affects the difficulty and available events within each world. In Pure Black World Tendency, enemies are stronger, and special Black Phantoms and Primeval Demons may appear. In Pure White World Tendency, enemies are weaker, and certain paths and events may become accessible. Manipulating world tendency is a key aspect of the game.
9. How do I achieve Pure Black World Tendency?
To achieve Pure Black World Tendency, you need to die in body form multiple times within the world. Each death in body form pushes the world tendency closer to black. Return to the Nexus after each death, then return to the level to push it further towards Black Tendency.
10. What are Primeval Demons and Black Phantoms?
Primeval Demons and Black Phantoms are powerful enemies that appear only when the World Tendency is at Pure Black. Black phantoms are stronger, non-respawning, versions of NPCs and regular enemies. Primeval Demons are grotesque creatures with large health pools that drop Colorless Demon’s Souls.
11. Where is Garl Vinland in Valley of Defilement?
Garl Vinland is a character you encounter in the final area of the Valley of Defilement, during the Maiden Astraea boss battle. He can be fought as a black phantom in the area after defeating him during the boss fight. However, this only occurs when the world tendency is Pure Black.
12. What does the Sodden Ring do, and where can I find it?
The Sodden Ring allows you to walk normally in swampy terrain, mitigating the movement penalty. It is found in Tower of Latria (3-2), behind a broken pillar in the swampy area, near a prisoner horde enemy, and it only spawns when the World Tendency is Pure Black.
13. Where can I find Graverobber Blige?
Graverobber Blige is a merchant NPC located in the Shrine of Storms Archstone. He is not located in Valley of Defilement.
14. What are Colorless Demon Souls used for?
Colorless Demon’s Souls are valuable items used to upgrade special weapons. These can be gained by defeating the Primeval Demons that appear with a Pure Black World Tendency. They also grant 5,000 souls upon consumption.
15. What is the best way to obtain the Large Sword of Searching?
The Large Sword of Searching is obtained by trading the Hero Demon’s Soul to Blacksmith Ed along with a +8 Claws or Curved Sword. The Hero Demon’s Soul is obtained by defeating Old Hero in the Shrine of Storms. You also need the Searing Demon Soul obtained by defeating the Flamelurker.
By understanding the location of the Filthy Woman, and by answering all of the other frequent questions about the game’s mechanics and important items, you should be prepared to effectively navigate the Valley of Defilement in Demon’s Souls and fully experience all it has to offer. Remember that patience, observation, and careful planning are crucial to success in this challenging world.