Navigating the Dark Depths: Your Guide After Defeating The Rotten in Dark Souls 2
So, you’ve braved the Black Gulch, faced the horrors lurking within, and finally vanquished The Rotten. Congratulations, Chosen Undead! But the journey is far from over, and the path forward might seem shrouded in mystery. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, answering the burning question: Where do I go after Black Gulch boss? We’ll also tackle 15 frequently asked questions to ensure you’re well-equipped for the trials ahead.
The Path Forward: Shaded Woods and Drangleic Castle
After defeating The Rotten, your next destination is the Shaded Woods. This area marks a significant turning point in your journey, leading you closer to the heart of Drangleic.
How to Reach the Shaded Woods:
- Return to the Ruined Fork Road Bonfire: This bonfire is located just outside the area where you fought The Rotten.
- Take the Left Path: From the Ruined Fork Road bonfire, you’ll notice three paths branching out. The path you need is the one to the left.
- Navigate the Fog: The Shaded Woods are characterized by a dense fog. Stick to the left wall as you move through the area to avoid getting lost. You’ll find a small clearing with a Fire Seed, and hugging the wall further will lead you to a staircase going down and out of the fog.
- Proceed Towards Drangleic Castle: Following the path out of the fog will eventually lead you to the entrance of Drangleic Castle, your next major objective.
What to Expect in the Shaded Woods
The Shaded Woods isn’t just a foggy path; it’s a location that throws unique challenges your way. You’ll encounter:
- Invisible Enemies: Many enemies in this area are partially or completely invisible, requiring careful observation and tactical combat.
- Petrified Foes: You may encounter petrified enemies that need to be dealt with.
- Ambush Points: Be cautious as the area is filled with ambushes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about navigating the game after defeating The Rotten and some related areas:
1. How do I get into the Shaded Woods initially?
To enter the Shaded Woods for the first time, you need to head towards Things Betwixt and veer right. You’ll find a gate blocked by a petrified woman. Using a Fragrant Branch of Yore on her will reveal Rosabeth of Melfia, who opens the way to the Shaded Woods.
2. How do I open the door to the Shaded Woods?
The door leading into the Shaded Woods requires a key. Next to the bonfire closest to that door is a petrified figure. Unpetrifying or killing this figure will allow you to obtain the necessary key.
3. How do I clear the fog in the Shaded Woods?
The fog cannot be completely cleared, however, as described above, sticking to the left wall will help you navigate out of the area.
4. What should I do after defeating the Lost Sinner?
After defeating the Lost Sinner, return to Majula. You have a few options: you can jump down the pit if your health is high enough, or explore Heide’s Tower of Flame, which will lead you to an alternate path and other areas to explore.
5. How do I reach Drangleic Castle?
As discussed, after defeating The Rotten, your next step is the Shaded Woods, and progressing through that area will ultimately lead you to the entrance of Drangleic Castle.
6. What are the four Great Souls in Dark Souls 2?
The four Great Souls you need to collect to access Drangleic Castle are those of: The Old Iron King, The Rotten, The Lost Sinner, and Duke’s Dear Freja.
7. What should I do after killing the Old Iron King?
After defeating the Old Iron King, proceed to the primal bonfire and use the altar behind it to warp to the next content area. You’ll need the Heavy Iron Key to enter Brume Tower.
8. What are the main bosses in Dark Souls 2?
The four main bosses required to progress to Drangleic Castle are Lost Sinner, Old Iron King, Duke’s Dear Freja, and The Rotten. Other important bosses include The Pursuer, Dragonrider, and the end game bosses.
9. Who is the final boss in Dark Souls 2?
The final boss of Dark Souls 2 is Nashandra, the evil queen of Drangleic.
10. Who is considered the hardest boss in Dark Souls 2?
Many players consider Fume Knight to be the hardest boss in Dark Souls 2, especially in the DLC Crown of the Old Iron King.
11. How do I access the DLC content, such as Crown of the Sunken King?
To access Crown of the Sunken King, you need to travel to the Black Gulch area and find a monument wreathed in snakes behind the bonfire. Examining this monument will warp you to the DLC area, Shulva, Sanctum City.
12. What boss is in the Black Gulch?
The boss you fight in Black Gulch is The Rotten. This is the boss you’ve just defeated if you’re following this guide.
13. How many bosses are in the Crown of the Sunken King DLC?
The Crown of the Sunken King DLC features three boss encounters, one of which is optional. The final boss is Sinh, The Slumbering Dragon.
14. Who is the secret final boss of Dark Souls 2?
The secret final boss in Dark Souls 2 is Aldia, Scholar of the First Sin. You must have spoken to Aldia three times and defeated Vendrick to trigger this fight, and not have already defeated Nashandra (unless you use a Bonfire Ascetic).
15. Where can I get a Fragrant Branch of Yore?
Fragrant Branches of Yore can be obtained in several locations:
* Purchased from Merchant Hag Melentia for 12,000 souls after beating The Last Giant.
* Found in a chest in No-Man’s Wharf.
* Found in a chest at the start of Lost Bastille.
Conclusion
Venturing forth from the Black Gulch is a crucial step in your quest to conquer Dark Souls 2. Remember to navigate the Shaded Woods carefully, using the information provided in this article. And don’t hesitate to consult this guide again as you progress further in your journey. The path ahead is challenging, but with the right knowledge and a bit of perseverance, you’ll be able to overcome any obstacle Drangleic throws your way. Good luck, Chosen Undead!