Should I Use the Black Eye Orb in Dark Souls 1? A Comprehensive Guide
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Unequivocally, yes! Using the Black Eye Orb in Dark Souls 1 is not just recommended; it’s an integral part of the narrative and a highly satisfying experience. It allows you to avenge the Firekeeper, Anastacia of Astora, by invading and defeating Knight Lautrec of Carim, her killer. This act provides closure, grants you her soul to revive her, and offers a sense of justice in a grim world. Don’t skip it!
The Black Eye Orb: A Tool for Revenge and Redemption
The Black Eye Orb in Dark Souls isn’t just another item; it’s a key to a poignant side quest. After Lautrec murders Anastacia, the Firekeeper, you’ll find the Black Eye Orb on her corpse. This item remains dormant until you reach a specific area within Anor Londo. Once you enter the large hall before the Ornstein and Smough boss fight, the orb will begin to vibrate and pulsate, indicating it’s ready to use.
Avenging the Firekeeper
Using the Black Eye Orb in this location initiates an invasion of Lautrec’s world. You’ll be summoned as a dark spirit to fight him and his two accompanying allies. While challenging, defeating Lautrec allows you to claim Anastacia’s Firekeeper Soul, which can then be used to revive her at the Firelink Shrine bonfire.
The Rewards of Vengeance
Reviving Anastacia is a significant benefit. It reactivates the Firelink Shrine bonfire, allowing you to rest and warp from there once again. Moreover, it provides a sense of satisfaction knowing you’ve avenged her death and restored a vital hub to the game.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Black Eye Orb
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the Black Eye Orb and its usage:
1. Is the Black Eye Orb Unlimited?
Yes, the Black Eye Orb has unlimited uses. However, it’s only usable in a very specific location in Anor Londo. You can attempt the invasion as many times as necessary until you succeed.
2. Where Exactly Do I Use the Black Eye Orb?
The Black Eye Orb becomes active in the large hall leading up to the Ornstein and Smough boss fight in Anor Londo. You’ll know you’re in the right place when the orb starts vibrating in your inventory.
3. Can I Use the Black Eye Orb After Defeating Ornstein and Smough?
Yes, you can still use the Black Eye Orb after defeating Ornstein and Smough. The trigger for the invasion is the location in Anor Londo, not the completion of the boss fight.
4. Why Can’t I Use My Black Eye Orb?
You won’t be able to use the Black Eye Orb until you’ve reached Anor Londo. Prior to that, the orb will remain inactive. Make sure you’ve also obtained it from Anastacia’s corpse after Lautrec kills her.
5. Is the Fight Against Lautrec Difficult?
The fight against Lautrec can be challenging, as he is accompanied by two other phantoms. However, utilizing tactics such as separating the enemies or using powerful weapons can make the fight manageable. Consider using a weapon with high poise damage to stagger Lautrec and his companions.
6. What Happens if I Fail to Defeat Lautrec?
If you fail to defeat Lautrec during the invasion, you will simply return to your world. You can attempt the invasion again as many times as needed until you succeed. The Black Eye Orb will not be consumed.
7. What Rewards Do I Get for Defeating Lautrec?
Defeating Lautrec grants you Anastacia’s Firekeeper Soul, which can be used to revive her at the Firelink Shrine bonfire. This will reactivate the bonfire, allowing you to rest and warp from there once again.
8. Do I Need to Be Online to Use the Black Eye Orb?
No, using the Black Eye Orb is an offline event. You do not need to be connected to the internet to invade Lautrec’s world and avenge Anastacia.
9. Can I Revive Anastacia Without Using the Black Eye Orb?
No, the primary method of obtaining Anastacia’s Firekeeper Soul, required to revive her, is by defeating Lautrec using the Black Eye Orb.
10. Is It Possible to Prevent Lautrec from Killing Anastacia?
Unfortunately, Lautrec killing Anastacia is a scripted event in the game. There is no way to prevent him from doing so. However, you can get revenge by using the Black Eye Orb.
11. What If I’ve Already Placed the Lordvessel? Does It Affect the Black Eye Orb?
Placing the Lordvessel does not affect the Black Eye Orb or your ability to use it in Anor Londo. You can still use it at any time after reaching the designated location, regardless of whether you’ve placed the Lordvessel or not.
12. Is It Worth Summoning Lautrec for the Gargoyles Fight?
Summoning Lautrec for the Gargoyles fight can make the encounter significantly easier. He is a strong summon and can help distract the gargoyles, giving you an advantage. However, keep in mind that summoning him doesn’t change his later actions in the game.
13. What Are the Best Strategies for Defeating Ornstein and Smough?
Ornstein and Smough are notoriously difficult. A common strategy is to focus on one of them first, typically Ornstein due to his speed. Using pillars to create distance and divide them can be helpful. Summons can also assist in drawing aggro and dealing damage. Remember that the second phase Ornstein or Smough become larger and inherit the other’s abilities.
14. Does Covenant Affiliation Affect the Black Eye Orb?
No, your covenant affiliation does not affect the Black Eye Orb. You can use it regardless of which covenant you’re currently a member of. However, remember you can only be truly committed to one at a time. Joining a new Covenant will break your oath with your previous Covenant, which will also reset your rank.
15. Are Frampt and Kaathe Really Connected?
While seemingly on opposite sides, some theories suggest that Frampt and Kaathe might be connected, or at least share a common goal. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Dark Souls lore, hinting at deeper, more complex motivations behind their actions. Some even speculate that the two are actually just facets of a single being.
Conclusion
The Black Eye Orb offers a unique and rewarding experience in Dark Souls. By avenging the Firekeeper, you not only restore a vital function to the game but also gain a sense of accomplishment in a world often devoid of justice. Don’t hesitate to use it when the opportunity arises in Anor Londo.
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