What is the Truth of Volcano Manor?
The truth of Volcano Manor is multifaceted, steeped in heretical beliefs, and dripping with political intrigue. It’s a sanctuary for those who defy the Golden Order and its stringent control over the Lands Between. At its core, Volcano Manor is a haven for those seeking to overthrow the Erdtree and the established divine rule, primarily through the consumption of champions and the veneration of the Serpent God. The Manor’s inhabitants are united by their shared disdain for the Greater Will and their devotion to a power they believe will liberate them from its influence.
Unveiling the Serpent God: The Heart of Volcano Manor
Volcano Manor’s philosophy revolves around the Serpent God, a being of immense power slumbering deep within the volcanic landscape of Mt. Gelmir. This deity is perceived as a force of chaotic freedom, offering an alternative to the rigid order imposed by the Greater Will and its representatives.
Tanith and the Abduction of Tarnished
Tanith, the head of Volcano Manor, is a key figure in understanding the Manor’s true purpose. She willingly offered herself to the Serpent God and became the consort of Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy. Her primary role involves recruiting Tarnished, initially under the guise of providing refuge, but ultimately to feed them to Rykard. These Tarnished, strong and capable warriors, are seen as a means to empower Rykard and hasten the Serpent God’s awakening.
The Recusants: Murder as a Service
Beyond the inner circle, Volcano Manor is populated by a group known as Recusants. These individuals have wholeheartedly embraced the Manor’s creed and willingly participate in the assassination of individuals deemed threats to their cause. Tanith issues contracts, tasking the Recusants with eliminating specific targets throughout the Lands Between, effectively turning the Manor into a hub for state-sponsored (or, rather, God-sponsored) assassinations. These assassinations serve to weaken the Golden Order’s influence and spread dissent.
A Refuge for the Disenfranchised
While the ultimate goal is the overthrow of the Erdtree, Volcano Manor also attracts individuals who have been cast aside by the Golden Order. It provides a haven for those deemed heretical, dangerous, or simply unwanted. This attracts a diverse range of characters, from powerful sorcerers experimenting with forbidden magic to skilled assassins seeking purpose and belonging.
The Blasphemous Blade: A Symbol of Rebellion
The Blasphemous Blade, Rykard’s weapon, is a potent symbol of the Manor’s core beliefs. It’s forged from the flesh and souls of those Rykard consumes, embodying the act of devouring champions to gain strength. The blade itself is a testament to the Manor’s commitment to defying the Golden Order and its laws.
A Crumbling Facade of Hospitality
Volcano Manor presents a welcoming facade to newcomers, offering hospitality and a sense of belonging. However, this is ultimately a manipulation tactic designed to lure potential sacrifices into the Manor’s web. The seemingly benevolent Tanith is, in reality, a ruthless manipulator driven by her devotion to the Serpent God.
The Final Truth: Rykard’s Choice
Ultimately, the “truth” of Volcano Manor is the tragedy of Rykard. He started as a champion for the people, but he was seduced by the power offered by the Serpent God. He chose to merge with the serpent, sacrificing his humanity and becoming a symbol of blasphemy. The Manor’s activities are, therefore, an extension of Rykard’s choice – a rebellion fueled by a desperate desire for freedom from the Golden Order, achieved through increasingly horrific and morally reprehensible means. It’s a cautionary tale about the seductive nature of power and the potential consequences of unchecked ambition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Volcano Manor
1. Is Volcano Manor truly evil?
It depends on your perspective. From the standpoint of the Golden Order, Volcano Manor is undoubtedly evil, representing heresy and defiance against the established divine rule. However, from the perspective of those oppressed or marginalized by the Golden Order, the Manor may represent a beacon of hope, a chance for liberation. Morality is subjective in the Lands Between.
2. What is the Serpent God, and what does it want?
The Serpent God is a mysterious entity of immense power residing beneath Mt. Gelmir. Its motivations are largely unknown, but Volcano Manor believes it desires to overthrow the Greater Will and usher in an era of chaotic freedom. It seems to gain power from consuming strong individuals.
3. How do I join Volcano Manor?
You can join Volcano Manor by accepting Tanith’s invitation after reaching the Altus Plateau and scaling Mt. Gelmir. You will be given a key to the drawing-room, the Recusants will be your guide to understanding the Manor.
4. What are the benefits of joining Volcano Manor?
Joining Volcano Manor provides access to unique weapons, armor, and sorceries. You’ll also gain access to assassination contracts that reward you with runes and special items. Furthermore, you’ll gain insights into the Manor’s lore and the Serpent God’s beliefs.
5. Who are the Recusants, and what is their role?
The Recusants are members of Volcano Manor who actively participate in the Manor’s assassinations. They are fanatically devoted to the Serpent God and willingly carry out Tanith’s orders. Their role is to weaken the Golden Order and spread dissent throughout the Lands Between.
6. What is Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy?
Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, is the master of Volcano Manor and the consort of Tanith. He is a Demigod who willingly merged with the Serpent God, transforming into a grotesque being fueled by the consumption of champions.
7. What happens if I kill Rykard?
Killing Rykard ends the primary storyline of Volcano Manor. Tanith will become distraught and eventually consume Rykard’s remains. Some of the Recusant questlines become unavailable.
8. What is the Blasphemous Blade, and what makes it special?
The Blasphemous Blade is Rykard’s signature weapon. It’s made from the flesh and souls of those Rykard has consumed, granting it unique powers. Its weapon skill allows you to steal HP and FP from enemies.
9. Are there any consequences to working with Volcano Manor?
Yes, working with Volcano Manor will align you against the Golden Order. Some NPCs may react negatively to your association with the Manor, and you may become involved in morally questionable actions.
10. Can I complete Volcano Manor’s questline and still achieve a “good” ending?
Yes, it is possible to complete Volcano Manor’s questline without locking yourself out of “good” endings. The Manor’s questline primarily affects the NPCs and storylines associated with Volcano Manor itself, not the overarching narrative of the game.
11. Where is Volcano Manor located?
Volcano Manor is located on Mt. Gelmir, west of the Altus Plateau. It can be accessed by traversing the winding paths and treacherous terrain of the volcano.
12. What kind of enemies will I encounter in Volcano Manor?
In Volcano Manor, you will encounter a variety of enemies, including Recusant assassins, Serpent Snail mages, Man-Serpent guards, and eventually, Rykard himself.
13. Are there any hidden areas or secrets within Volcano Manor?
Yes, Volcano Manor is full of hidden areas and secrets. Explore thoroughly to find hidden passages, valuable items, and lore-revealing notes. The illusory walls are particularly common within the manor.
14. What happens to Tanith after I defeat Rykard?
After defeating Rykard, Tanith will remain in the arena, consuming his remains. Eventually, a Crucible Knight will invade the room to eliminate her.
15. What is the overall significance of Volcano Manor to the lore of Elden Ring?
Volcano Manor represents a significant challenge to the Golden Order’s dominance in the Lands Between. It showcases the potential for rebellion and the allure of alternative ideologies. It serves as a reminder that the “truth” is often a matter of perspective and that even the most seemingly righteous order can be challenged by those seeking freedom and change, however twisted their methods might become.