Dark Souls II 100% Walkthrough Checklist

A step-by-step Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin walkthrough checklist, area by area: every item, boss, NPC event and missable, DLC included.

Things Betwixt

Before entering the hut, go through the gap in the wall, turn right and search the hidden nook next to the fallen tree for a Rusted Coin
Inside the hut pick your name, class, burial gift and appearance, then speak with Milibeth and the three old women by the fire
Climb the stairs and open the chest for a Human Effigy
Leave through the door beside the old women, smash the cart for a Soul of a Lost Undead and a Torch, then light the Fire Keepers' Dwelling bonfire
Go back through the hut and follow the hidden path under the bridge to find a Small Smooth & Silky Stone
Return up, cross the bridge, push through the bushes and kill the lone Ogre for the Stone Ring; loot the Gold Pine Resin from the corpse nearby
Head back to the bonfire and enter the tutorial caves; behind the first fog gate collect the Dagger and a Lifegem
Drop the Small Smooth & Silky Stone into the bird nest so Dyna & Tillo send you a random item, then kick the ladder down
Hop off the ledge for a Soul of a Nameless Soldier, then drop back to the main path
Behind the second fog gate, leap the gap to grab the Amber Herbs
Jump back, climb the ladder, drop down and open the door for a Cracked Red Eye Orb
Back on the main path a petrified statue blocks the third fog gate; it needs a Fragrant Branch of Yore, so return later
With the statue gone, push over the tree beyond that gate, cross it and drop into the pit; a corpse there holds an Estus Flask Shard
Climb out, pass the fog gate and kick the second tree over on the left to open a shortcut
Kill the two Ogres in the clearing, then deal with the extra foe that shows up on the beach
The coffin in the hut lets you swap your character's body type if you sleep in it
Light every sconce around the hut to make a black phantom appear and fight it
Talk to Milibeth once more to receive the Handmaid's Ladle
Return to the tutorial path and continue toward Majula; on the way drop right between the boulders for a Morning Star, Cleric's Sacred Chime and Binoculars
NG+: Falconers now roam the grass near the start and drop pieces of the Falconer Helm, Falconer Armor, Falconer Gloves and Falconer Boots
NG+: the waterfall ledge left of the bridge now holds three Smooth & Silky Stones instead of the small one
NG+: a dark spirit crossbowman blocks the ladder after the second fog gate; he can drop a Heavy Crossbow and the Imported set

Majula

Light the Far Fire bonfire, then talk to the Emerald Herald to receive the Estus Flask and unlock levelling
Walk back up the entry path for a Divine Blessing, then slip through the gap on the right and chat with Benhart of Jugo
Killing Benhart of Jugo gives the Bluemoon Greatsword and adds his gear to Merchant Hag Melentia's stock, but ends his questline
A few Lifegems and Homeward Bones lie scattered around this spot
Enter the building, open the left door, kill the Bloated Hollow and take the Lloyd's Talismans
Climb the steps by the bonfire and talk to Crestfallen Saulden to learn the Welcome gesture; he can enlist you in the Way of Blue, which gives the Blue Seal
Crestfallen Saulden gives the Ring of Steel Protection once you have died 100 times; killing him also drops it
The plaque next to him shows the worldwide death count
Speak to Blacksmith Lenigrast outside his locked shop, then grab the Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Lifegems to the right of his house
By the great pit, look under the tent for another Lifegem
Take the steps right of the tent, descend the spiral stairs and open the chest for the Crimson Parma
Climb the hill to the Victor's Stone, take the Homeward Bones and, if you want a harder game, pledge to the Company of Champions there (you receive the Champion's Tablet)
In the house beside the pit, meet Sweet Shalquoir; she sells Ring of the Evil Eye, Silvercat Ring, Redeye Ring, Name-engraved Ring, Ring of Whispers, Prism Stones, Alluring Skulls and Lloyd's Talismans
Once both Royal Rat Vanguard and Royal Rat Authority are dead, Sweet Shalquoir adds the Flying Feline Boots
Hit the stone at the well beside the mansion to reveal an Estus Flask Shard
Killing the Enslaved Pigs many times turns them into Undead Boars and finally a Giant Undead Boar, which drops three Cracked Red Eye Orbs once
In the house across the pit, buy armour or shields from Maughlin the Armourer: Iron Parma, Silver Eagle Kite Shield, Twin Dragon Greatshield, plus the Hard Leather, Infantry and Falconer pieces
After spending 1,000 souls with Maughlin the Armourer he adds the Royal Soldier and Elite Knight sets; at 16,000 he adds the Alva set
Talk to Maughlin the Armourer with no souls on hand after spending 16,000 to receive the Aurous set as a gift
Boss armour sets appear in his stock as you defeat the matching bosses
Climb the ladder next to his shop and open the chest for a Titanite Shard
Give the Estus Flask Shard to the Emerald Herald to add a charge
Along the seaside path toward the forest, the first hut has a chest with a Rusted Coin; its lever raises the gate
Through the gate, drop down for a Human Effigy, then carry on to the Forest of Fallen Giants
NG+: after spending enough with Maughlin the Armourer and beating the required bosses he sells Moon Butterfly Wings, Moon Butterfly Cuffs and Moon Butterfly Skirt
NG++: Maughlin the Armourer also stocks the Moon Butterfly Hat, and the chest above his shop holds the Moon Butterfly Shield
NG+: the chest on the islet under the narrow bridge toward the forest now gives five Human Effigy items, and a mimic replaces the metal chest on that path

Forest of Fallen Giants

Head right up the stream for a Homeward Bone and a Soul of a Lost Undead, then follow the water down to The Crestfallen's Retreat bonfire
Clear the camp, fish another Soul of a Lost Undead out of the river and climb the ladder
Turn right for a Green Blossom, jump over for Throwing Knifes and a Soul of a Nameless Soldier, then come back
Up the second ladder take another Soul of a Nameless Soldier and kill the firebomb thrower
Jump the gap for the Shortsword and a Soul of a Lost Undead
Drop down, clear the clearing and collect the Broken Straight Swords, a Human Effigy and a Lifegem
Past the fog gate, enter through the broken wall, clear the room and break the cabinet for Wood Bolts, then take the Lifegem in the hallway
Climb the steps carefully (archer and firebomber above), take the Buckler, climb the ladder for Witching Urns and light the Cardinal Tower bonfire
Meet Merchant Hag Melentia and buy Lenigrast's Key first; she also sells a Traveling Merchant Hat, Pharros' Lockstone, Fragrant Branch of Yore, Soul Arrow, Heal and basic weapons
Spending 10,000 souls with Merchant Hag Melentia (or killing her) gets the Covetous Silver Serpent Ring+1
Exhaust Merchant Hag Melentia's dialogue so she moves to Majula later
Smash the upstairs door and hunt the Crystal Lizard inside. Loot: chest (Small Leather Shield, Repair Powder), behind the cart (Hand Axe, Radiant Lifegems), a body (Hollow Soldier Helm)
Open the other door, survive the ambush and loot the Small White Sign Soapstone and Radiant Lifegems from the chest
Drop onto the branch for a Divine Blessing, then drop again
Go back through the door, drop to the scaffolding and jump across for a Human Effigy
Work down the scaffolding for a Soul of a Lost Undead and a Torch; from the treetop jump to a ledge for Prism Stones
In the first cave grab the Foot Soldier Shield; in the second take the Soul of a Proud Knight, dash to the door for a fire Longsword and time your exit between the salamander's fireballs
Take the Lifegems left of the ladder, climb up and slip back to the bonfire through the hole in the wall
In Majula, unlock Blacksmith Lenigrast's door; he upgrades gear and sells Titanite Shards, ammo and basic weapons, and the Short Bow sits in a chest behind him
Spend 8,000 souls with Blacksmith Lenigrast (or kill him) to receive the Blacksmith's Hammer
From Cardinal Tower go down the ladder and over the bridge for a Soul of a Lost Undead
With the Silvercat Ring, snipe the salamanders and drop into the pit below the bridge for the Hawk Ring, Firedrake Stone, Large Soul of a Proud Knight and the Flame Quartz Ring+1 in the chest
In that pit's cave take Cracked Red Eye Orbs, the Heavy Iron Key and the Rebel's Greatshield, then climb back out
Through the fog gate climb the branch, clear the top and lure a firebomb thrower into blowing open the shortcut wall
Up the ladder, kill the firebomber and fight The Pursuer early if you like; loot the Estus Flask Shard, Repair Powder, Human Effigy, Lifegems and a Torch up there
Jump down the scaffolding to the cave on the left for a Human Effigy
Talk to Cale the Cartographer until he hands over the House Key and mentions Majula; grab the Amber Herb on the ledge
Killing Cale the Cartographer drops his helm and puts the rest of his set in Merchant Hag Melentia's shop
Climb up, kill the archer, drop to the roof, clear the scaffolding and drop into the tower for a Torch
Jump to the house loft, drop down for the Titanite Shard by the gate and return to the bonfire
Go through the hole in the wall, down the steps, and drop off for a Green Blossom
In the ballista room, dodge in and out to bait the hollows, then loot the Great Soul Arrow, Blue Wooden Shield and Large Soul of a Lost Undead
Down the ladder, open the trapped chest for a Titanite Shard, then use a Pharros' Lockstone on the hidden door for the Chloranthy Ring and a Titanite Slab
Hit the wooden door to break it, clear the room and open the chest for the Life Ring and a Large Titanite Shard
Back on top, talk to Mild Mannered Pate, then walk through the gate that slams behind you
Clear the courtyard and building and grab the Aromatic Ooze
Open the illusory wall at the foot of the stairs for the Sorcerer's Staff and an Amber Herb
Climb up and drop to Mild Mannered Pate for the White Sign Soapstone (you still get it if you died in his trap)
Killing Mild Mannered Pate gives Pate's Spear and the Ring of Thorns and stocks his set at Merchant Hag Melentia
Through the archway, take the Large Soul of a Lost Undead behind the tree and climb the ladder for the Light Crossbow
In the building, kill the invisible hollow by the brazier and jump to the platform for a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and a Torch
Drop down for the Mail Breaker and Infantry Helm in the chest, then drop outside
Beat the two hollows at the fog gate, go through and open the side door back to the bonfire
Grab the Fire Arrows on the ledge, then the Large Leather Shield and a Lifegem on the steps inside
Outside collect Amber Herbs on the left and a Lifegem and Homeward Bone on the right platform
Climb the giant sword (watch the ambush behind) for the Halberd and a Soul of a Nameless Soldier
Ride the lift down and defeat The Last Giant; Mild Mannered Pate and Sellsword Luet can be summoned at the fog. Reward: Soul of the Last Giant, Soldier Key and 10,000 souls
Back in Majula, Merchant Hag Melentia now sells unlimited Lifegems
From Cardinal Tower cross the bridge and unlock the door with the Soldier Key for the Ring of Restoration; open the chest normally, breaking it destroys the ring
At the giant sword, unlock the right-hand door, climb up and grab a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and a Lifegem
If not done yet, defeat The Pursuer at the top; Ruined Alfis can be summoned in the dark corridor and the ballistas deal big damage. Reward: Soul of the Pursuer, Ring of Blades and 17,000 souls
Drop down past the arena for the Drangleic Sword, Drangleic Shield and Drangleic armour (no helm)
Use the giant nest in the boss arena to be carried to The Lost Bastille (The Tower Apart); open the chests for a Dull Ember and two Human Effigy items
Circle the ledge of the left building for a Radiant Lifegem and Large Titanite Shard
Drop down and open the chest for a Fragrant Branch of Yore, the Covetous Silver Serpent Ring and a Human Effigy; another Pursuer appears
Up the ladder and along the walkway, roll through the barrels to reach Lucatiel of Mirrah; exhaust her talk and take the Antiquated Key from the chest
Killing Lucatiel of Mirrah drops her mask and ends her questline
Walk the wall on the right and climb for a Large Titanite Shard, then grab the Gold Pine Resin in the alley further along
Roll a barrel down to blast the wall, then light the McDuff's Workshop bonfire
With a lit torch, raid the chests for Large Titanite Shards, Titanite Shards, Iron Arrows and Heavy Bolts
Give the Dull Ember to Steady Hand McDuff, light the torch stand and rest; his chest now holds the Craftsman's Hammer and Twinkling Titanite
Steady Hand McDuff infuses gear and sells weapons like the Bastard Sword, Uchigatana, Greataxe, Winged Spear, Scythe, Long Bow and Royal Kite Shield
Spend 14,000 souls on Steady Hand McDuff's services to receive a Titanite Slab (counts for Smith for Life)
Back in Majula open the mansion with the House Key: Pharros' Lockstone in the library, Titanite Shards and a Torch upstairs
Kill the skeletons under the map room for a Human Effigy, then take the Estus Flask Shard and the Soul Vessel from the chest
From Cardinal Tower open the barred door past the bridge with the Soldier Key
Grab the Black Firebombs and Homeward Bone in the side alcove and a Torch at the end
In the next building climb up for the Whip, a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Cracked Red Eye Orbs; the Bastard Sword is on a roof corpse
By the sealed gate collect an Amber Herb and a Green Blossom
In the next building, a chest on the wooden frame holds a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and the Leather set
Armorer Dennis may invade here; leave him alive if you plan to farm Seed of a Tree of Giants
Light the Soldiers' Rest bonfire; the sleeping giant next door can drop a Seed of a Tree of Giants when you are invaded
Return to Majula and take the stone stairs toward Heide's Tower of Flame, grabbing a Soul of a Lost Undead and the Broken Thief Sword
NG+: the ballista room chest holds Titanite Chunks, and the cave above Cale now has Wilted Dusk Herbs
NG+: dark spirits appear around the forest; the knight drops Knight armour, the Catarina knight drops Catarina armour and the Syan soldier drops Syan's Helm pieces

Heide's Tower of Flame

An Old Knight stands right at the entrance; beat him, then light Heide's Ruin just to his right
Defeat the next knight and take the Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Human Effigy
Kill the knight by the first lever, pull it to raise a platform and grab the Lloyd's Talisman behind the door
In the round hall beat the knight and the two that rush in, then pull the new lever to raise the second platform
Exit right, kill the fog-gate guard and open the chests for Green Blossoms and the Ring of Binding
With both levers pulled, defeat the Dragonrider; Masterless Glencour can be summoned at the fog. Reward: Dragonrider Soul and 12,000 souls
The Heide Knights become hostile after this fight
Climb to the Tower of Flame bonfire and meet Licia of Lindelt; she sells miracles such as Heal, Med Heal, Great Heal Excerpt, Replenishment, Resplendent Life, Caressing Prayer, Force, Lightning Spear, Homeward and Guidance, plus the Ring of Prayer
Exhaust Licia of Lindelt's dialogue so she moves toward Majula; at 30 Faith she gives the Saint's set and the Idol's Chime
Killing Licia of Lindelt drops the Rotunda Lockstone and Idol's Chime; spare her if you want the Rotunda key normally
In Majula, pay Licia of Lindelt 2,000 souls by the stone stairs to open the road to Huntsman's Copse
Grab the Rouge Water and walk up to the Undead Refuge bonfire; with 8 Intelligence and 8 Faith Felkin the Outcast sells hexes such as Dark Orb, Dark Weapon, Resonant Soul, Great Resonant Soul, Resonant Flesh and Resonant Weapon
Felkin the Outcast also stocks the Archdrake Staff, Archdrake Chime, Chaos Rapier, Chaos Shield and Ring of Life Protection
With 20 Intelligence and 20 Faith, talk to Felkin the Outcast for the Hexer's set and the Sunset Staff
Killing Felkin the Outcast drops the Sunset Staff
Back at the Tower of Flame, return to the three-knight hall, exit right and take the Divine Blessing on the ledge
Kill the dragon for a Petrified Dragon Bone and Watchdragon Parma, which also reveals the lever for the drawbridge
Across the bridge grab the Old Radiant Lifegem and five Human Effigy items from the chest
Defeat the Old Dragonslayer in the Cathedral of Blue (no summons). Reward: Old Dragonslayer Soul, Old Leo Ring and 15,000 souls
Through the door, the chests hold Cracked Blue Eye Orbs, the Cleric's Parma and the Tower Shield
With a Token of Fidelity, join the Blue Sentinels via Blue Sentinel Targray: you get the Guardian's Seal and the Duel Bow gesture, and his shop offers miracles like Heavenly Thunder plus Boltstone
Killing Blue Sentinel Targray drops the Blue Knight's Halberd and puts Targray's set in Merchant Hag Melentia's shop
Go down to light the Blue Cathedral bonfire, then visit Cale the Cartographer, now in the Majula mansion map room
From Tower of Flame take the spiral stairs down for a Monastery Charm
On the upper level corpses: Human Effigy, Dark Troches, Soul of a Proud Knight and Old Knight Halberd
Downstairs a Syan Knight guards a chest with Sublime Bone Dust
Ride the lift down; a Fragrant Branch of Yore frees the statue on the stairs, leading to a chest with Knight armour and an Estus Flask Shard
Exit through the hole in the wall and follow the lower path to the next bonfire
NG+: a corpse by the first lever now has Skeptic's Spice, and dark Blue Sentinels drop Token of Fidelity and Cracked Blue Eye Orbs
NG+: a dark spirit Executioner near the Dragonrider fog drops a Token of Spite

No-man's Wharf

Light the Unseen Path to Heide bonfire; braziers ahead can be lit for visibility
On the docks you can summon Bradley of the Old Guard if you want help
First house: Titanite Shard in the chest and a Soul of a Proud Knight on the balcony
Fish a Large Soul of a Lost Undead and Lifegem out of the water, then take the Dark Pine Resin (left house) and Iron Arrows (right house)
A friendly torch hollow in the far right house can follow you around with light
Up the first stairs, the first chest on the right gives the Bandit Axe and the Brigand set
Clear the Varangians upstairs and open the second chest for Repair Powder and a Titanite Shard
Back downstairs, use a Pharros' Lockstone to light the whole wharf
Drop onto the roof for a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and a Small Smooth & Silky Stone
Take the stairs, go left into the house and exhaust Lucatiel of Mirrah's dialogue for a Human Effigy
Smash the shelves by that doorway; a body behind has three Human Effigy items
Up the next stairs grab the Large Soul of a Lost Undead and the Emit Force miracle
Through the large hole, kill the Darkdwellers, take the Greatsword from the metal chest and two Silver Talismans from the trapped chest
Go upstairs in the next house and out to ring the bell that calls the ship
Drop to the roof for a Lifegem and Homeward Bone, then go inside for Fire Arrows and head down a level
In the left house behind poison urns, a corpse has Throwing Knifes and Flame Butterfly items
Open the chest for a Fragrant Branch of Yore, break the wall and kill the Crystal Lizard
In the cave grab the Soul of a Nameless Soldier, Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, Lifegems, Fading Soul and the Royal Soldier's Ring from the chest
Next house: open the illusory wall for Firebombs and a Large Titanite Shard, then go up to open the shortcut gate
Lonesome Gavlan sells the Ring of Giants, Poison Arrows, Poison Moss, Poison Throwing Knifes and Rotten Pine Resin, and buys your spare items
Killing Lonesome Gavlan drops the Gyrm Greataxe but costs his later shops and Majula count
Back outside, a corpse on the boat has a Human Effigy and Lifegems; kill the hollows hiding on the walkway and in the water
With 8 Intelligence, Carhillion of the Fold sells sorceries (Soul Arrow, Great Soul Arrow, Heavy Soul Arrow, Great Heavy Soul Arrow, Shockwave, Soul Spear Barrage, Magic Weapon, Yearn), the Spell Quartz Ring and Clear Bluestone Ring
At 30 Intelligence Carhillion of the Fold gives you the Northern Ritual Band+1; killing him also drops it
From Carhillion, kick down the shortcut toward the bonfire
On the ship's lower deck defeat the Flexile Sentry; summon Lucatiel of Mirrah (1st of her 3 needed fights) or Bradley of the Old Guard. Reward: Flexile Sentry Soul and 14,000 souls
Up the ladder, the chest gives the Pyromancy Flame and Fireball; use the compass to sail to The Lost Bastille
In the cave lift, step off the switch, jump on the cage roof as it descends and walk into the hidden nook near the bottom for a Scimitar and Repair Powder
Ride back up and search the cells: one corpse has a Soul of a Proud Knight and Radiant Lifegem, the third right-hand cell a Common Fruit, and a cell further on houses Exile Holding Cells bonfire (light it)
After you met Carhillion of the Fold, he relocates to the dead tree in Majula
NG+: the first house chest holds a Titanite Chunk and Gavlan's hidden room has Black Firebombs and extra Large Titanite Shards

The Pit / Grave of Saints

Buy the Silvercat Ring from Sweet Shalquoir (13,400 souls) before descending
Take off your armour and drop to the first wooden platform in the pit for a Radiant Lifegem
The next platform has a Pharros' Lockstone; then jump across for Poison Moss
Drop to the ledge and rest at Harval's Resting Place, then warp back to Majula
Descend again past the moss, keep dropping and loot the Ring of the Evil Eye+1 at the bottom, then dress again
Warp to Harval's Resting Place; Rat King covenant members may summon you as an invader here
In the round room take the Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier
Up the steps to the left, grab the Small Smooth & Silky Stones
Use a Pharros' Lockstone to drop the bridge near the top; cross for Poison Moss, then go upstairs for Whisper of Despair and a Torch
Back across, climb the ladder near the end, turn left and grab the Homeward Bones at the end room; light the Grave Entrance bonfire
Defeat the Royal Rat Vanguard: kill normal rats until the mohawked one appears (no summons). Reward: Royal Rat Vanguard Soul and 11,000 souls
Talk to the Rat King; he sells Corrosive Urns, Dung Pies, Common Fruit, Red Leech Troches and Triclops Snake Troches
Join the Rat King covenant here if you want to earn rewards defending its domains
Drop down the hole for a Pharros' Lockstone, then use the coffins to reach the walkway and the Bleed Stone at its end
Jump to a small ledge for the Disc Chime if you dare
On the bridge kill the Crystal Lizard, jump the gap and open the chest for the Ash Knuckle Ring
Drop down, deal with the exploding undead, then take the Sublime Bone Dust in the blocked tunnel; skeletons hold Great Heal and Homeward Bones
Exit through the other tunnel and climb down the right-hand ladders for a Human Effigy, a Radiant Lifegem and a Token of Spite in the bottom chest
Leave via the tunnel past the poison statues, drop onto the roof (weak floor) and down to The Gutter's first bonfire
NG+: the bridge corpse now has Twinkling Titanite instead of the Bleed Stone, and a dark Firekeeper spirit drops the Dingy set

The Lost Bastille / Belfry Luna

From Exile Holding Cells drop into the gap in the walkway and circle the ledge for a Soul of a Brave Warrior and Human Effigy
Drop off the wall and smash the wooden frame for an Alluring Skull; The Pursuer ambushes this courtyard at some point
Down the left alley the chest holds an Estus Flask Shard and a Large Titanite Shard
Smash the planks over the wall hole for Flame Butterfly items in the cell
Use the Antiquated Key on the door, hit the well block and kill the three citizens; one drops the Wanderer set
Up the alley ladders, clear the room for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Green Blossom
Blow up the barrels with a firebomb to reach the Archdrake Robes and Archdrake Shield
The next room's chests hold the Parrying Dagger, Twinblade and Bone Staff
A Pharros' Lockstone opens a hidden room with a Soul Vessel
Take the Wilted Dusk Herb, ride the cage lift up for Skeptic's Spice, then drop to the shaft ledge for a Bonfire Ascetic
Use a Fragrant Branch of Yore upstairs to free Straid of Olaphis and light his bonfire; he trades boss souls for spells and weapons
The gate here leads straight to Sinners' Rise if you want to skip ahead
Downstairs, open the two secret doors by the cage for a Green Blossom
Outside fight the returning Pursuer, grab the Bracing Knuckle Ring, then jump across for a Flame Butterfly and a Torch
Follow the ledge for a Soul of a Brave Warrior and the Golden Wing Shield, then light the Servants' Quarters bonfire
Cross the rubble, free the statue with a Fragrant Branch of Yore and survive the ambush behind the door
Downstairs open the shortcut and loot a Soul of a Proud Knight and Human Effigy; climb for a Radiant Lifegem in the open cell
Defeat the Ruin Sentinels; Pilgrim Bellclaire and Felicia the Brave can be summoned nearby. Reward: Ruin Sentinel Soul and 33,000 souls
Open the four hidden doors in the arena for the Target Shield and a Rusted Coin; one room's ladder leads to Hush and a Homeward Bone
Past the stairs, a hidden door hides Rouge Water; watch for the exploding citizen, grab a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and light Straid's Cell bonfire
From Servants' Quarters, go up and take the Bastille Key from the corpse at the edge
In the tower go left onto the roof for Flame Butterfly items, jump to the next roof for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and loop back through the barrel room
Down the ladder, beat the Pursuer again, open the chest for the Priest's Chime and take the Large Club
Use a Pharros' Lockstone to open the way into Belfry Luna
The Belfry Guard can induct you into the Bell Keepers (invaders defend this tower)
Collect Skeptic's Spice on the next floor, drop for the Blue Tearstone Ring and more spice, then climb for Radiant Lifegems and Twilight Herbs
Ring the bell with the lever and defeat the Belfry Gargoyles; Masterless Glencour can be summoned. Reward: Belfry Gargoyle Soul and 25,000 souls
Grab the Soul of a Proud Knight at the roof edge, then the Southern Ritual Band in the chest downstairs; light Upper Ramparts
Down the ladder by the bonfire survive the dogs and Vorgol the Sinner, then loot the Dragon Tooth, Petrified Something, Brightbug and magic Falchion
In Majula, Merchant Hag Melentia gives you a Radiant Lifegem
NG+: the Belfry Gargoyles also drop the Covetous Gold Serpent Ring+2
NG+: the cell next to Straid's Cell now has the Resplendent Life miracle, and the Tower Apart chest holds five Large Titanite Shards

Huntsman's Copse / Undead Purgatory

Felkin the Outcast waits beside the Undead Refuge bonfire if you need hexes
Climb the path and kill the Great Moth quickly before it poisons you
In the building keep to the ledge and expect an ambush at the far door
Outside grab the Cracked Red Eye Orbs, climb down, light Bridge Approach and push over the tree shortcut
Climb the ladder and make the tough jump to the pillar for a Pharros' Lockstone and a Token of Fidelity
Drop to the lower ledge, kill the moths in the cavern and loot a Monastery Charm and Soul of a Proud Knight
Hop down the giant mushrooms (Poison Moss on the second) to the chest with Ricard's Rapier
Open the hidden door, follow the tunnel for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, ride the cage up and use the next hidden door to return
In the lower area collect the Bandit's Knife, a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and a Lifegem
Climb to the roof, drop to the ledge for Poison Moss and a Lifegem, then head back to the bonfire
Left of the first bridge in the copse, a corpse has a Large Soul of a Lost Undead and a Small Orange Burr
Over the bridge, the left side holds a Lifegem, Aromatic Ooze, Morning Star and Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier
Drop through the hut roof up the hill for Sublime Bone Dust in the chest plus Soul Spear, Poison Moss and a Green Blossom
In the next hut (ambush from above) pull the lever to lower the big bridge
Cross both bridges and follow the ledge to a path on the left with Poison Throwing Knifes
Take the Undead Lockaway Key; Merciless Roenna invades around here
Drop to a ledge for the Flamberge, then open the hut on the bridge and light Undead Lockaway
Inside the hut, Creighton the Wanderer teaches you Fist Pump once you chat with him
Killing Creighton the Wanderer drops his mask and stocks his set at Merchant Hag Melentia
In the cave beside the hut, skeletons revive until their Necromancer dies and the pots curse you until broken; grab a magic Mace and a Titanite Shard
Take the far tunnel, cross the small bridge and follow the right ledge, picking up Flame Butterfly items in the building
Skip the fog gate for now; follow the ledge into the cave and kill the remaining Necromancer, whose corpse area has Combustion and a Titanite Shard
Brave the jump to the middle platform for a Human Effigy, Lacerating Arrows and Prism Stones
Through the tunnel kill the Crystal Lizard, pull the lever for a shortcut gate and take the Estus Flask Shard
Defeat The Skeleton Lords; Creighton the Wanderer can be summoned by the lever. Each lord releases extra skeletons when it dies. Reward: Skeleton Lord's Soul and 15,000 souls
Lower the bridge beyond, then light Harvest Valley's Poison Pool bonfire inside the cave (poison at the mouth)
Meet Stone Trader Chloanne: she sells a Bonfire Ascetic, Titanite Shards, Soul Appease and Dead Again; exhaust her dialogue so she moves to Majula
Spending 20,000 souls with Stone Trader Chloanne earns two Twinkling Titanite; killing her drops a Palestone
Once four new residents have moved to Majula, Crestfallen Saulden hands you a Soul Vessel; check back with him now and then
From Undead Lockaway recross the big bridge, drop left and cross the small stone bridge
Up the hill take the Notched Whip, go through the left passage and brace for four enemies dropping from above
Cross the gappy bridge, kill the red phantom blocking it and jump to the platform for a Fire Seed
Defeat Executioner's Chariot (no summons). Throwing Alluring Skulls keeps the skeletons busy so you can reach the Necromancers. Reward: Executioner's Chariot Soul and 19,000 souls
Gather the Soul of a Brave Warrior and Fading Souls in the arena, then light the Undead Purgatory bonfire upstairs
With a Token of Spite, Titchy Gren admits you into the Brotherhood of Blood (gives the Crest of Blood); his shop has Great Scythe, Firestorm, Great Combustion, Fire Whip, Delicate String and Red Sign Soapstone
Titchy Gren adds the Bone King set after The Skeleton Lords die, and the Executioner set after Executioner's Chariot and a visit to Drangleic Castle
Killing Titchy Gren drops the Nahr Alma Hood and puts the rest of the Nahr Alma gear at Merchant Hag Melentia
Covenant members can use the statues in front of Titchy Gren to duel
Burn your Sublime Bone Dust at the Far Fire in Majula to strengthen your Estus
NG+: the boarded house now has a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and an Old Radiant Lifegem, and an Elizabeth Mushroom sits past Bridge Approach
NG+: The Skeleton Lords drop the Clear Bluestone Ring+2 and Executioner's Chariot drops the Chloranthy Ring+2

Harvest Valley

Stock up on Poison Moss or Lifegems before heading down
Head into the valley for a Lifegem, then sweep the first area for Fading Souls, Titanite Shards, Small Smooth & Silky Stones, a Titanite Chunk, Poison Throwing Knifes, Torches, a Sunlight Medal and another Lifegem
Through the hole, a corpse holds a Fragrant Branch of Yore and a Torch
Drop into the poison mist and open the chest for a Fire Seed and Divine Blessing
Back up in the cave, take the Raw Stone from the chest; Lonesome Gavlan is here and still trades
Pick up a Torch, climb the first ladder for Hexing Urns, then use the second ladder and lever to open the gate and light The Mines bonfire
In the next zone kill three Crystal Lizards, then go left and right into the Artificial Undead ambush
A corpse holds Green Blossoms. Breaking the boarded nooks here turns up: Lifegems, Simpleton's Spice, Titanite Shard, Large Titanite Shard, Large Soul of a Brave Warrior, Radiant Lifegem, Skeptic's Spice
Upper tunnel: go left and kill the Crystal Lizard without dropping into the mist, then double back for a Titanite Shard and Petrified Something
Lure the Mounted Overseer into smashing the planks, then take the Soul of a Lost Undead, Old Knight Pike, Old Knight Greatshield, a Torch, a Radiant Lifegem and a Smooth & Silky Stone
Outside, drop right to a chest with a Poison Stone and Rotten Pine Resins
Climb down into the mist, walk straight for a Soul of a Nameless Soldier, then climb the next ladder
Drop through the small hole without a ladder for a Fading Soul, continue right for Simpleton's Spice and up the ramp
Drop into the mist below for a Human Effigy, Large Titanite Shard, Titanite Shard, Soul of a Brave Warrior, the Chameleon sorcery and the Washing Pole
Cross the bridge, climb the steps, turn left before the building and follow the tunnels to the broken sun statue
Examine the statue to learn Praise the Sun and join the Heirs of the Sun if you like (Sun Seal)
Inside the building an Undead Steelworker bursts through the poison pots
Near the fog gate, drop down beside the planks for Skeptic's Spice, then jump to the cage room ledge (arrow trap behind you)
A corpse holds a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Titanite Shards; the chest has the Heavy Crossbow +3 and Heavy Bolts
Go down into the poison, turn right into the room and talk to Lucatiel of Mirrah for the Ring of Steel Protection+1
Use a Pharros' Lockstone there to reveal the Poisonbite Ring and a Soul of a Proud Knight
Grab the Repair Powder at the end of the poison corridor, and a Torch from the trapped chest beside the fog gate
Defeat the Covetous Demon (no summons); shoot the hanging pots to free hollows that distract it. Reward: Covetous Demon Soul and 13,000 souls
In Majula, upgrade your Estus with any new shards
If not done yet, go up from Servants' Quarters in The Lost Bastille through the barrel room and free Straid of Olaphis with a Fragrant Branch of Yore; light his bonfire
Straid of Olaphis teaches Mock and sells Ring of Knowledge, Lingering Dragoncrest Ring, Homing Soul Arrow, Strong Magic Shield, Cast Light, Unveil, Sunlight Blade, Lingering Flame, Flame Swathe, Dark Hail, Dark Fog and Affinity
Trade boss souls to Straid of Olaphis for weapons and spells
Killing Straid of Olaphis drops the Black Hood but closes his soul trades for the cycle
Open the cell next to Straid with the Bastille Key for a Petrified Dragon Bone and Firebombs
Free Rosabeth of Melfia with a Fragrant Branch of Yore in the building where you met Benhart in Majula's outskirts; leave the lever there alone for now
Rosabeth of Melfia gives a Prism Stone and sells Flame Quartz Ring, Thunder Quartz Ring, Dark Quartz Ring, Fire Orb, Poison Mist, Flash Sweat, Iron Flesh, burrs and Fire Seeds; she upgrades the Pyromancy Flame
Exhaust Rosabeth of Melfia's dialogue and give her a spare piece of clothing (Change of Clothes), then rest at the Far Fire; she moves to Majula
Killing Rosabeth of Melfia drops a Fire Seed
NG+: the Gavlan cave chest gives a Palestone and the Steelworker room exit holds Twinkling Titanite

Earthen Peak

Climb the stairs for a Radiant Lifegem, cross the walkway (archers to the right) and follow the right path to a chest with the Pike
Go back, climb the ladder, pass the fog gate and light Central Earthen Peak; light your torch
Set fire to the windmill to drain poison from parts of the peak, including Mytha's arena
Upstairs grab the Black Firebombs, dodge the arrow trap and take the Manikin Mask
If the gate is closed, climb the ladder and go right for a Flame Butterfly, then drop down the hole, break the poison vases and pull the lever below
Break the fence, walk left along the ledge and meet Laddersmith Gilligan; pay him 2,000 souls to lower a ladder to a Pharros' Lockstone and Twinkling Titanite
Laddersmith Gilligan teaches Prostration and sells the Reinforced Club, Whip, Claws, Wooden Shield, Thief Mask, Black Leather pieces, Lacerating Knife, Aromatic Ooze, Bleeding Serum and the Ladder Miniature
Killing Laddersmith Gilligan drops the Melu Scimitar and Ladder Miniature
Return along the ledge for Simpleton's Spice
Pull the lever and quickly grab the Large Soul of a Proud Knight and Divine Blessing under the platform, then ride it up for the Mirrah Shield
Drop down, climb the ladder, follow the passage to the right-hand room and talk to Mild Mannered Pate
Higher up, a trapped chest holds a Pharros' Lockstone
Make the tricky jump for a Radiant Lifegem, then a chest with a Soul of a Brave Warrior and Crimson Water
Drop to the lower platform for Great Heavy Soul Arrow, talk to Mild Mannered Pate again, then drop right for Lightning Spear
Running-jump to the far walkway for a poison Broadsword and a Human Effigy, then work back to the bonfire
Past the arrow trap and up the ladder, an illusory wall behind poison pots hides the Spell Quartz Ring+1
Skip the fog gate, clear the right-hand room upstairs and take the Small Smooth & Silky Stone
Kill the mimic instead of wasting a lockstone; it drops the Dark Gauntlets and Work Hook
Upstairs left, a hidden door leads to Petrified Something; the hidden door the other way leads to Upper Earthen Peak bonfire
Grab the Poison Stone left of the steps, then defeat Mytha, the Baneful Queen; summon Jester Thomas or Devotee Scarlett. Reward: Mytha, the Baneful Queen Soul and 20,000 souls
Take the new door and lift to Iron Keep and light Threshold Bridge down the steps on the left
In Majula, Laddersmith Gilligan sells three pit ladders (500, 3,500 and 12,000 souls)
Buy the longest ladder and talk to Laddersmith Gilligan again for the Melu Scimitar (Garrulous Miser)
NG+: the broken bridge near Pate now has three Divine Blessings, and Mytha, the Baneful Queen drops the Covetous Silver Serpent Ring+2

The Gutter

Carry a lit torch, light every sconce (this also summons an invader later), bring poison cures and a spare weapon for breaking statues
Before the first bridge, smash the pot on the left for Dung Pies
Cross the bridge, avoid the weak floor mid-platform, cross the next bridge, then go right up the ramp and drop to the dirt below (watch the tar pools)
Drop off the far edge toward the wooden tower, clear the ground, climb its ladder and jump to the ledge chest with the Ring of Soul Protection
Jump back into the tower; the mimic there drops the Dark Armor and a lightning Winged Spear
Light the sconce at the far end of the ledge to bring Melinda the Butcher into your world
Drop down twice and head back to the bonfire, breaking a pot for a Lifegem
Recross the first bridge and fall through the weak floor, then handle the ambush
Running-jump to the platform with the torch-carrying hollow
The ladder here needs the Forgotten Key from Black Gulch; it leads to Havel's set and Havel's Greatshield
Cross the bridge, drop down the hole and break the pot for the Dark Pyromancy Flame and Rotten Pine Resins; a Swollen Mongrel lurks next door
Climb two ladders for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, a Fragrant Branch of Yore, Twinkling Titanite, a Human Effigy and Smooth & Silky Stones
Cross the first rope bridge, climb for Black Firebombs, then drop twice for a Titanite Chunk in a pot
Drop into the next structure for the Tattered Cloth set in a pot
A Heide Knight waits on the dirt ledge; slaying him yields the Heide Knight Iron Mask and Heide Lance, and the nearby chest holds Aurous armour
Up the long ladder take the Estus Flask Shard, a Soul of a Proud Knight and the Bandit Greataxe
From the hollows' platform drop twice to a pot with Flame Butterfly items, then keep dropping to the rope bridge level
Kill the mongrel on the planks, climb to the second rope bridge and cross (exploding citizen, weak floor)
Cross the third bridge into the cave for the Wicked Eye Greatshield
Drop left into the cave of the passive Corrosive Ant Queen for Poison Moss
Through the fog gate (holes in the floor) smash the far wooden wall and light Central Gutter
Around the corner break the statues and jump to the other structure; kill the mongrel and take the Black Firebombs
Back through the smashed wall, take the far-left ladder (pot of Dung Pies), drop for Rotten Pine Resins, then two more ledges to the chest with the Great Club
After lighting every sconce, the Gutter Denizen invades; it drops Black Witch pieces
Pots in this area hold Dark Fog, a Torch and Lifegems
Destroy the corrosive pots in front of the wall hole from range, drop down for a Fragrant Branch of Yore, then pass the fog into Black Gulch and light Black Gulch Mouth
NG+: a Heide Knight lancer appears once and drops the Heide Greatlance

Black Gulch

Bring poison cures and a spare weapon; worms burst out of the left wall on the way down
Just past the rock jutting from the left wall, drop right to a ledge and follow it to Lucatiel of Mirrah; exhaust her dialogue
Drop out of the tunnel, go right into the cave and open the chest for the Shotel and Great Magic Weapon
By the first worm, a corpse has a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, Scraps of Life and a Torch
Woodland Child Gully invades as you descend
Break the pot for a Radiant Lifegem; the chest in the left cave is real and holds a Divine Blessing
Follow the cliff to a cave with a petrified statue; free it, light the Hidden Chamber bonfire and take the Pharros' Lockstone from the jar
Back up the hill, drop beside the worm to a ledge with a locked door, then drop twice more into the large cave
Hug the right wall into the second cave: chest with the Ring of Giants+1 and a Petrified Dragon Bone
Kill the two giants for the Forgotten Key and a Soul of a Giant
In the first side cave circle right for Silver Talismans, then ride the cage lift up
Open the locked ledge door and speak to Darkdiver Grandahl (first of three meetings for the Pilgrims of Dark)
Killing Darkdiver Grandahl drops the Dragon Chime but locks you out of his covenant
Return via the cage lift; Woodland Child Victor invades near the fog gate
Defeat The Rotten; summon Lucatiel of Mirrah (2nd fight), Lone Hunter Schmidt or Bashful Ray. Cutting his left arm drops a Pharros' Lockstone later. Reward: Soul of the Rotten and 47,000 souls
If you can stand the heat, cross the fire for a Fire Seed
In the cave to the right of the exit tunnel, a chest holds Petrified Something, Simpleton's Spice and Skeptic's Spice; light the primal bonfire (Gulch Bonfire)
In Majula, use Laddersmith Gilligan's longest ladder down the pit, climb the opposite ladder and open the door with the Forgotten Key for the Dragon Talon, Soul Vortex, Witchtree Branch, Witchtree Bellvine and Great Lightning Spear
Warp to Upper Gutter and use the Forgotten Key on the ladder door for Havel's set and Havel's Greatshield
NG+: The Rotten also drops the Old Dead One Soul, which Straid of Olaphis trades for Numbness

Iron Keep / Belfry Sol

With enough fire resistance, dash under the steps by Threshold Bridge for a Human Effigy. A Bonfire Ascetic sits on the platforms below the bridge; drop off and hop across
Crossing the bridge triggers NPC invasions: Fencer Sharron first, then Armorer Dennis on a later pass
Inside, go upstairs and, if you can take the heat, run under the fire for the Iron Key
Down the hallway meet Magerold of Lanafir: Jester's pieces, Bandit pieces, Cursebite Ring, Human Effigy items, Charcoal Pine Resin, Rusted Coins, the Hello Carving, Thank You Carving, I'm Sorry Carving and Very Good! Carving, Fall Control, Dark Hail and Darkstorm
Magerold of Lanafir burns Skeptic's Spice or Simpleton's Spice to lower spell stat requirements
Later, bring the Petrified Egg to Magerold of Lanafir to join the Dragon Remnants
Spend 10,000 souls with Magerold of Lanafir (or kill him) for the Covetous Gold Serpent Ring+1
Upstairs take the Pharros' Lockstone on the left, open the hidden door on the right for Fire Arrows and the next hidden door by the ballista
Snipe the Alonne archer on the right, follow the walkway and drop to pull the first lever
Up the steps to the right, drop for a Soul of a Proud Knight and Repair Powder; climb the ladder to the chest with the Life Ring+1 and Twinkling Titanite
Over the bridge, jump to the pillar for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Red Leech Troches
Drop, pull the second lever and shut off the furnace fire at the top of the steps
With fire protection, the chest at the bottom of the steps holds the Phoenix Parma; the furnace corpse has Large Titanite Shards and a Petrified Dragon Bone
Return over the bridge and make the jump to the steps for another Petrified Dragon Bone; climb the ladder for the Zweihander without wasting a lockstone
Defeat the Smelter Demon; summon Lucatiel of Mirrah at the fog (3rd fight). Reward: Smelter Demon Soul and 32,000 souls
Through the door, grab the Porcine Shield and Flame Butterfly items and light Ironhearth Hall
Maughlin the Armourer now sells the Smelter Demon set
Go back into the arena after resting: The Pursuer waits there and drops the Ring of Blades+1
Down the ladder outside grab an Old Radiant Lifegem and Green Blossom
Cross the bridge and pull the lever to lower the platform toward the lava
Through the door, a Pharros' Lockstone reveals a hidden ladder to the Thunder Quartz Ring+1
Take the one-way drop and light Belfry Sol Approach; up the ladder the Belfry Guard offers the Bell Keepers covenant
In Belfry Sol, ring the bell and collect three Simpleton's Spice around the tower, plus Immolation from the roof chest
Down the steps a corpse has a Human Effigy and Triclops Snake Troches
Before dropping from the ledge, a hidden door on the right leads to chests with the Grand Spirit Tree Shield, Protective Chime and Black Knight Greatsword
Back in Iron Keep, pull the lever again and shoot down the Alonne archers
Kill the Crystal Lizard and follow the walkway (lava pressure plates) to a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and Radiant Lifegem
With fire protection, a Fire Seed lies below the steps and a chest holds Chaos Storm
Hug the platform edges for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, then fight the invader Oliver the Collector at the ladder
Along the walkway a chest has Destructive Greatarrows; kill the three Alonne archers upstairs (no lockstone needed)
Collect the Titanite Shards, Fire Arrows, Simpleton's Spice and the Black Knight Greataxe
Drop to the third walkway for a Cracked Red Eye Orb and Torch, then keep dropping to the cauldron rim for the Covetous Gold Serpent Ring
Outside the fog gate a corpse holds a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Monastery Charm
Past the two Ironclad Soldiers, cross the fire trap room via the corner ladders, switch off the flames and light Eygil's Idol
Downstairs pick up the lightning Short Bow +1, then defeat the Old Iron King; summon Manhunter O'Harrah in the statue hall. Reward: Old Iron King Soul and 48,000 souls
In the building, take the Petrified Something and light the primal bonfire (Iron Keep Bonfire)
In Majula, Stone Trader Chloanne now sells unlimited Titanite Shards and some Large Titanite Shards
In Majula's outskirts, talk to Benhart of Jugo at his new spot to learn Joy, pull the lever and survive the ambush
In the next room, the right door hides an Estus Flask Shard; the left door leads to a bonfire
NG+: Old Iron King also drops the Old King Soul (traded to Straid for Blinding Bolt)
NG+: Magerold of Lanafir sells the Dragonrider set, and a dark Half-Ironclad near Eygil's Idol can drop the Drakekeeper's Great Hammer
NG+: the forge chest has Twinkling Titanite and the chest guarding the Thunder Quartz Ring+1 becomes a mimic

Shaded Woods

Climb the steps and jump left into the second room for a Soul of a Proud Knight and Human Effigy
Drop down and pull the switch by the entry door to open the way
Take a Fading Soul on the path, then a Pharros' Lockstone up on the left where the stone walls begin
Grab the Soul of a Proud Knight and Human Effigy amid the enemies and light Ruined Fork Road
Dash out the middle door, beat the Ogre and pick the Red Tearstone Ring out of the water
Out the right door into the fog (invisible rogues): hug the right wall for Lloyd's Talismans and then the Old Sun Ring in a chest
Follow the cliff then the wall to a ramp leading to the Chloranthy Ring+1
Keep following the wall past the first right-hand hill; the next hill has a Soul of a Proud Knight and Human Effigy
Further up, a ruin hides a Fire Seed behind the wall and the talking Head of Vengarl
Head of Vengarl teaches Decapitate and sells the Claymore, Greatsword, Ring of Soul Protection, Destructive Greatarrows, Lightning Urns, Gold Pine Resin and Magic Barrier
Exhaust Head of Vengarl's dialogue for Vengarl's Helm (Reflections of Disembodiment)
Straight down the hill, a corpse has a Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Radiant Lifegem
Search the middle of the fog for another Soul of a Nameless Soldier, Amber Herbs and the Clear Bluestone Ring+1 in a chest near the Old Sun Ring
Return to the hill you skipped by the ring chest, enter the building and light Shaded Ruins
Up the ramp take a Radiant Lifegem, drop down, go down the left ramp for Magic Bolts, then come back up
In the ruins jump back to the curse-pot level for a Petrified Dragon Bone; far left by the trees grab a Flame Butterfly and Torches
In the building full of curse pots, go downstairs for a Soul of a Brave Warrior and Pharros' Lockstone
Out the door, kill the Crystal Lizard and open the chest for the Dark Scythe
In the sand, wear the Ring of Whispers and talk to Manscorpion Tark
Down the passage free the petrified Lion Warrior for a Torch and kill the Body of Vengarl for Vengarl's Armor, Vengarl's Gloves and Vengarl's Boots
With his body destroyed, Head of Vengarl expands his shop: look for the Red Rust Shield, Red Rust Scimitar and Red Rust Sword
In the open ruins, a petrified Lion Warrior guards a chest with Human Effigy items, Bleeding Serums and the Repair sorcery; save a branch for it until you are done
In the barrel ruins kill the three Lion Warriors, then go upstairs for a Pharros' Lockstone and Soul of a Brave Warrior
Grab the Lifegem next to the sand pit trap
Climb to the top of the second tower to meet Creighton the Wanderer and loot Skeptic's Spice and a Soul of a Brave Warrior
Another petrified Lion Warrior blocks a chest with a Fragrant Branch of Yore and the Lion Mage set
Drop to a ledge left of this ruin for a Soul of a Brave Warrior and Firebomb, then free the Lion Warrior the other way; he drops the Fang Key
Cross the branch to the bonfire, jump out the left window to a ledge and enter the building for a Soul of a Brave Warrior, Twilight Herb and Sublime Bone Dust
Jump to the other ledge for the Black Knight Halberd, then return to the bonfire
Back at the towers, fall through the grass trap for Homing Soulmass and talk to Darkdiver Grandahl (second meeting)
Climb the slope avoiding the corrosive pools, kill the Basilisks, take the Twinkling Titanite from the right cave and the Fragrant Branch of Yore behind the door
Exhaust Weaponsmith Ornifex's dialogue so she later opens shop in Brightstone Cove Tseldora
Between the towers go up to the fog and defeat Scorpioness Najka; summon Manscorpion Tark or Bradley of the Old Guard. Make her knock the tree to drop a Flame Butterfly. Reward: Scorpioness Najka Soul and 23,000 souls
Follow the long tunnel to Doors of Pharros, clear the first area, take the Prism Stones and light Gyrm's Respite
Burn your Sublime Bone Dust at the Far Fire
Back in the woods, Manscorpion Tark gives a Fragrant Branch of Yore and teaches Warmup
NG+: the right side of the fog holds Gower's Ring of Protection, the cave by Ornifex has three Twinkling Titanite, and Scorpioness Najka drops the Southern Ritual Band+2

Doors of Pharros

Go back up the ramp for a Dragon Charm in the chest and a Lifegem higher up
Lonesome Gavlan now sells poison goods without limits
Rat King members may summon you here, and Bowman Guthry invades offline players
Left door and ramp: grab the Gyrm Axe and a Torch
Drop down and use a Pharros' Lockstone on the water contraption before the big door for Santier's Spear
At the far end of the cave a corpse has Amber Herbs; climb the ladder in the next cave for Twisted Barricade and a Soul of a Proud Knight
Activate the first contraption on the ledge, then go below it for a chest with a Faint Stone and Twinkling Titanite
Further along, a trapped chest holds a Titanite Chunk and Petrified Dragon Bone
By the stairs a corpse has a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Pharros' Lockstone
Go left around the ledge, light Ordeal's End, then circle the edge for a Soul of a Brave Warrior
Defeat the Royal Rat Authority (no summons); kill the four small rats fast and stay under the boss. Reward: Royal Rat Authority Soul and 14,000 souls
Sweet Shalquoir now sells the Flying Feline Boots
Past Gavlan, kill the axe-throwing Gyrm and the Crystal Lizard, then enter Brightstone Cove Tseldora, breaking a pot for a Radiant Lifegem and lighting Royal Army Campsite
NG+: the slope chest has five Dragon Charms and Gavlan's final spot gets an Old Radiant Lifegem

Brightstone Cove Tseldora

Near the cliff collect three Soul of a Nameless Soldiers and a Large Soul of a Proud Knight
Wreck the wooden tower for Lacerating Arrows and break the jar by the building for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier
Grab the Titanite Shard by the well, break the roof above it, then jump into the well from the ramp for Holy Water Urns
Through the tunnel and up the ladder, kill the mimic for the Dark Leggings and Staff of Wisdom
Downhill (rolling boulders) take a Soul of a Nameless Soldier, climb for a Soul of a Brave Warrior, then a Large Titanite Shard on a ledge
In the tunnel clear the spiders (holding a torch calms them) and take Heavy Bolts from the chest
Take the Human Effigy from the pot, open the illusory wall opposite and go upstairs for the Priestess set
Defeat the Prowling Magus and Congregation; summon Benhart of Jugo from a campsite tent (his 1st fight). Use the pews as cover. Reward: Titanite Slab and 7,000 souls
Outside, climb the ladder in the left alcove for Fading Souls, a Bonfire Ascetic, the Cleric's Small Shield and Skeptic's Spice
Cromwell the Pardoner absolves sins and sells White Priest pieces, Poisonbite Ring, Bloodbite Ring, Cursebite Ring, Great Heal, Perseverance and Scraps of Life
With 35 Faith, Cromwell the Pardoner gives the Ring of Resistance; killing him also drops it
Down the ladder, through the wall hole and left around the ledge to light Chapel Threshold
This part is full of one-way drops, so unlock Lower Brightstone Cove first
Under the stairs a hidden corpse has a Soul of a Proud Knight; break a pot for Wilted Dusk Herbs and kill the Hollow Mage, but skip the zip line
Drop to the right ledge, enter the building (two mages, hole in the floor) for Lightning Urns, then go down and light Lower Brightstone Cove
Outside on the right take a Petrified Dragon Bone (spider ambush); Bowman Guthry may invade
Left door at the pit: Pharros' Lockstone in the jar and a Flame Butterfly behind the shelves
Weaponsmith Ornifex sells the Murakumo, Partizan, Twinblade, Composite Bow, Heavy Crossbow, ammo, herbs, Homing Soul Arrow, Homing Soulmass and Fall Control, and forges boss soul gear
From Chapel Threshold ride the zip line and watch Mild Mannered Pate and Creighton the Wanderer face off; pick one to kill
Killing Mild Mannered Pate yields Pate's Spear and the Ring of Thorns; killing Creighton the Wanderer yields his mask. The survivor gives his set and the other appears at Merchant Hag Melentia
Talk to the survivor for the Tseldora Den Key
Grab Charcoal Pine Resins from the jar, a Torch behind the first door, kill the Crystal Lizard behind the next door and take a Titanite Chunk
Drop down, smash the shelves to reveal a lever that lowers a chest, then jump to it for the Southern Ritual Band+1
Edge along the narrow ledge to the pit floor (avoid the red lizard) and warp back to Chapel Threshold
From the chapel front drop to the lizard ledge, then the wooden platform, then down for a Large Titanite Shard
Drop to the next ledge (follow the pots) into a room with an Estus Flask Shard, then warp back
From the lizard ledge jump to the stone building in the wall for another Large Titanite Shard
From the small structure by the zip line drop to a rock ledge for a Titanite Chunk and Twinkling Titanite
Circle the pit to the last room; smash the bookcases for the Crescent Axe and Soul Vortex
Up the sand into the corridor for a Titanite Chunk; in the house ahead grab a Torch upstairs and a Large Titanite Shard outside
Hit the far door from range until sand bursts out, then loot the Engraved Gauntlets and the trapped chest's Rusted Coins
In the spike field corpses: Titanite Shard, Titanite Chunks, a Titanite Slab and Torches
Cross the walkway, kill the spider ambush and take Poison Arrows, a Soul of a Hero and Gold Pine Resins
Pull the right lever and beat the red phantom for Homeward Bones, then the left lever and the foe behind it; the locked right door needs the Brightstone Key
Descend the web maze: Torch behind a pillar, Pharros' Lockstone opposite, a Radiant Lifegem stuck in the web, and at the floor Corrosive Urns, Simpleton's Spice plus a Twilight Herb
Defeat The Duke's Dear Freja; summon Ashen Knight Boyd, Manhunter O'Harrah or Bashful Ray. Kill the small spiders first. Reward: Soul of the Duke's Dear Freja and 42,000 souls
Touch the red light to absorb the great soul, then kill the Duke in the library for the Brightstone Key, a Fragrant Branch of Yore and the Dark Quartz Ring+1
Light the primal bonfire (Brightstone Bonfire)
Use the Brightstone Key on the spider room door (ambush) for the Black Knight Ultra Greatsword, Great Fireball and a Fire Seed
NG+: The Duke's Dear Freja ambushes you early in the cove and later drops the Old Paledrake Soul (Straid: Crystal Soul Spear)
NG+: the well near the campsite and the smaller house before the mine hold extra Titanite including a Titanite Slab

Sinners' Rise / Shrine of Winter

From Straid's Cell go through the gate, grab the Lifegem around the right corner and head toward the fog (sniper above), then climb the ladder in the building and light The Saltfort
Inside take a Large Soul of a Lost Undead, go down the ladder and stairs for a Human Effigy
Ride the lift and jump off near the bottom for Lacerating Knifes
Kill the Flexile Sentry waiting below and take the Blossom Kite Shield and a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier
A hidden wall to the right of the stairs leads outside; hug the left wall for the Northern Ritual Band and a Bleed Stone
Kill the exploding prisoners in the lower cells for a Soul of a Proud Knight and Pharros' Lockstone
Use the Bastille Key on an upper cell, kill the Heide Knight for the Heide Spear and take a Fire Seed
On the way to the fog a side alcove has a Radiant Lifegem
Up both stairways, unlock the doors and set the oil alight with a torch (Flame Butterfly works); take the Smooth & Silky Stone
Defeat The Lost Sinner; summon Lucatiel of Mirrah by the lift (4th fight) or Sellsword Luet. Light both oil pools first. Reward: Soul of the Lost Sinner and 45,000 souls
Take the Fragrant Branch of Yore and Elizabeth Mushroom from the chest and light the primal bonfire (Sinner's Bonfire)
Maughlin the Armourer adds the Penal set
With all four great souls, warp to Ruined Fork Road in Shaded Woods and take the left archway toward the Shrine of Winter
Behind the bridge support on the left: Large Soul of a Proud Knight, Human Effigy and Twinkling Titanite
An invisible attacker haunts the next stretch; past it the Dragonslayer's Crescent Axe and a Golden Falcon Shield wait on the ground
Through the door, past the serpent shrine, turn right on the winding path for a Soul of a Hero; the other way has a Divine Blessing
Take the Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Human Effigy, climb the long stairs and find Holy Water Urns behind the boulder; kill the Crystal Lizard
NG+: The Lost Sinner calls in two pyromancers mid-fight and drops the Old Witch Soul (Straid: Flame Weapon)
NG+: the Shrine of Winter door needs another million souls of current-cycle memory if you skip the great souls

Drangleic Castle / King's Passage

Climb the steps and speak with the Emerald Herald
Fight up the stairs past the Mastodons and archers, then kill Royal Swordsmen near the gate statues until the door opens
Before going in, circle right to a chest with Great Combustion and a Fire Seed
Upstairs inside, Chancellor Wellager teaches This One's Me and sells the Flamberge, Lucerne, Bracing Knuckle Ring+1, elemental arrows and bolts, Old Radiant Lifegems, Wilted Dusk Herbs, a Divine Blessing, Repair Powder and Great Magic Barrier
Peek into the empty throne room at the top of the stairs, then go back down behind the staircase
A Syan Soldier guards the left door; the chest inside has Sublime Bone Dust
At the far door (Royal Swordsman ambush) climb down, open the two blue doors and light King's Gate
Titchy Gren now sells the Executioner set
In the statue hall, kill enemies near the golem statues to open each door (a Ruin Sentinel waits behind every one): one has a Pharros' Lockstone, one the Mastodon Greatsword, one the Royal Soldier's Ring+1, and one a collapsing floor
Fall through that floor for the Faraam set, light Under Castle Drangleic and talk to Darkdiver Grandahl (third meeting)
Join the Pilgrims of Dark (Abyss Seal); Darkdiver Grandahl then sells Human Effigy items, Bonfire Ascetics, Cast Light, Dark Orb, Dark Hail, Darkstorm and Profound Still
The first right-hand room of the statue hall leads on: chest of Dark Arrows and a corpse with the Frozen Flower (Ivory King key)
Under the stairs grab a Soul of a Hero, Old Radiant Lifegems and a Monastery Charm
At the acid pool (snipers above) strip your gear and take the Elizabeth Mushroom and the Corrosive Urns from the chest
In the room lined with masks, the trapped chest has a Large Soul of a Brave Warrior and Twinkling Titanite; roll away as the darts fire
The room above holds a Petrified Dragon Bone, Torches and two kinds of greatarrow (Destructive Greatarrows, Fire Greatarrows). Mind the cursing painting; the Nameless Usurper invades afterwards
Down the left ladder a corpse has a Soul of a Brave Warrior; the next ladder leads to the Hunter's Blackbow and Dark Arrows
Back up one ladder, open the illusory wall and light Forgotten Chamber
Return to the stairs, talk to the Queen (Nashandra), and defeat the Twin Dragonrider; summon Pilgrim Bellclaire or Bashful Ray. Kill the archer first. Reward: Dragonrider Soul and 26,000 souls
In the next room light Central Castle Drangleic and talk to Benhart of Jugo
Down the stairs, climb the long ladder and lure enemies near the big statue so their souls power the lift
Out the door, chests hold the Old Knight Hammer, Caitha's Chime and Soul Greatsword
In the next room kill the chariot guard for Gower's Ring of Protection, then go upstairs
On the first flight the right chest has Firestorm; the left one is a mimic dropping a Petrified Dragon Bone and Washing Pole
Out the main door, climb right and kill the Alonne archer and the gargoyle; through the small door grab Repair Powder, Flame Butterfly items and an Estus Flask Shard
Pull the lever to unblock the door, then return to the bonfire
Ride the lift up; the cage there needs a key from later. Chests hold the Key to King's Passage, a Soul Vessel, a Fire Seed and Strong Magic Shield
Ride down and unlock King's Passage: Alluring Skulls on the right, then (four statues wake up) a Lifegem, Soul of a Proud Knight, Twinkling Titanite and Petrified Something behind pillars
Defeat the Looking Glass Knight; summon Benhart of Jugo (2nd fight), Ashen Knight Boyd or Sellsword Luet. At half health he calls a mirror phantom. Reward: Looking Glass Knight Soul and 25,500 souls
Through the archway the left chest has Soul Bolt, the Spell Quartz Ring+2 and Bonfire Ascetics
Take the lift down, grab the Green Blossom behind the branches and light Tower of Prayer in Shrine of Amana
Sweet Shalquoir and Stone Trader Chloanne now stock more, including unlimited Large Titanite Shards, Poison Stones and Bleed Stones
Chancellor Wellager now sells the Black Flamestone Dagger, Yellow Quartz Longsword, Bound Hand Axe, Homunculus Mace, Transgressor's Staff and matching shields
NG+: two Pursuers guard the throne room and drop the Ring of Blades+2; Looking Glass Knight drops the Ring of Steel Protection+2
NG+: a dark Drakekeeper on the castle stairs drops the Drakekeeper's Warpick, and the corpse by the inactive Stone Knight now holds Great Magic Barrier
NG++: Chancellor Wellager sells Bountiful Sunlight, Wrath of the Gods and Great Chaos Fireball, needed for the spell achievements if you skipped the covenant ranks
NG++: Chancellor Wellager also sells the Crescent Sickle, Curved Twinblade and Spirit Tree Shield

Shrine of Amana

Down the steps, through the door, walk the ledge and hit the branch to knock an item down, then open the chest at the end for Wilted Dusk Herb and Skeptic's Spice
Inside the building go down for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier under the stairs
Expect Amana Priestess spells, Lurkers in the water and hidden drop-offs; a torch helps but angers Lurkers
Outside to the right pick up the Flame Butterfly and Twinkling Titanite you knocked down
Take the Human Effigy items, then talk to the first Milfanito in the hut until she gives a Smooth & Silky Stone
Around the house (curse pot) a chest holds Crimson Waters; further on collect Bleeding Serum, Soul of a Lost Undeads, a Torch, Skeptic's Spice and a Large Soul of a Proud Knight
Before the cave, a sunken chest on the left has a Dragon Charm; inside, the left chest has Twinkling Titanite and Smooth & Silky Stones
Through the fog light Crumbled Ruins; a Pharros' Lockstone in the water by the ramp gives the Helix Halberd
The next ruins have a Fire Seed; the submerged path to the left ends at a door that opens only after Vendrick dies
Kill the Ogre on the right from range, then follow the pillars carefully for an Estus Flask Shard and Sunlight Blade
In the building take a Large Soul of a Proud Knight, Old Radiant Lifegem and Smooth & Silky Stone
Behind the back door, past cursed urns where two roots meet the water, a sunken chest has Fire Tempest (mind the underwater cliff)
Past the hut, break the branches into the left cave, kill the Ogre and take the Singer's Dress and Life Ring+2
Grab the Alluring Skulls left of the fog gate and a Soul of a Hero and Divine Blessing on the narrow right ledge, then light Rhoy's Resting Place
Out the cave and right along the ledge for a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and Green Blossom
Clear the Lurkers in the round area; Peculiar Kindalur invades
Collect Skeptic's Spice, a Soul of a Brave Warrior, a Petrified Dragon Bone, a Soul of a Proud Knight and the Red Iron Twinblade, then carefully take Homing Crystal Soulmass from the broken pillar
Grab another Large Soul of a Proud Knight and Green Blossom, then talk to the second Milfanito in the hut; she vanishes
Defeat the Demon of Song; summon Felicia the Brave or Lone Hunter Schmidt. Reward: Demon of Song Soul, the Key to the Embedded and 26,000 souls
Follow the ruins to the tower for Magic Arrows and free the statue with a Fragrant Branch of Yore to light Rise of the Dead
In Drangleic Castle, use the Key to the Embedded on the cage above the lift; the third Milfanito gives the Ring of the Dead
Return to Rise of the Dead in Hollow form, open the upstairs door, kill the pyromancer and talk to Milfanito for a Fire Seed, Divine Blessing and Petrified Something
She can restore your humanity for free afterwards
Downstairs (another pyromancer) a cave corpse has a Fire Seed; the third pyromancer outside drops a Bonfire Ascetic
Drop left of the stairs for the Manslayer, then circle right for another Bonfire Ascetic (deep water nearby)
Back at the bonfire, open the door guarded by a Syan Soldier and ride the lift down to the Undead Crypt
NG+: the house between the second and third bonfires holds a Large Soul of a Brave Warrior and an Elizabeth Mushroom

Undead Crypt

Light Undead Crypt Entrance and take the Radiant Lifegem right of the stairs
Go upstairs with no torch or Cast Light; lighting Grave Warden Agdayne's area turns him hostile
Take the Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, talk to Grave Warden Agdayne to learn Have Mercy! and shop: Insolent pieces, Shield of the Insolent, Ring of Thorns+1, dark ammo, Human Effigy items, Elizabeth Mushrooms, Soul Spear, Soul Vortex, Soul Appease and Warmth
With the King's Ring, Grave Warden Agdayne later gives his armour and Darkdrift
Drop left beside the door for Simpleton's Spice and a Soul of a Great Hero
Climb the ladder for the Crushed Eye Orb and a Fire Seed, then drop to the bridge
Left of the fog, the statue down the stairs can be lit to brighten the crypt, but it spawns eleven Insolent Knight phantoms
Back up, open the chest for a Soul Vessel and climb for a Soul of a Hero
Down the broken ladder light Undead Ditch; pass the fog wall nearby to clear it
Destroy every gravestone statue to stop Leydia Pyromancers respawning, and beware the bells: hollows ring them to call all pyromancers
Around the room gather Simpleton's Spice, Black Firebombs, a Titanite Chunk, a Petrified Dragon Bone, Smooth & Silky Stones and Human Effigy items
Climb the corner ladder for Dried Fingers, a Bonfire Ascetic and Twinkling Titanite
In the next room smash two statues and loot a Soul of a Lost Undead and the Bracing Knuckle Ring+2
The Nameless Usurper invades again; an illusory wall to the right hides a Wall Warrior and a chest with Avelyn and Heavy Bolts
Grab a Soul of a Hero and Divine Blessing, kill the two Imperious Knights and drop through the hole
First leave by the widest hallway, turn left and pull the lever for a shortcut
Quickly destroy every statue and the bell-ringer, then reveal the illusory wall on the left and use a Pharros' Lockstone
Opposite, a hidden wall leads to Great Lightning Spear and Olenford's Staff; the room's corpses have the Mace of the Insolent, Soul of a Hero, Radiant Lifegem and Homeward Bone, with a Large Soul of a Proud Knight and Dragon Charm in a side hall
Before the next room take the Magic Stone and Darknight Stone; inside, drop right and kill the bell-ringers fast
At the hall's end beat two Syan Soldiers and a Dragonrider, then open the stairside chests for Poison Throwing Knifes, a Darknight Stone, Torches and a Fragrant Branch of Yore
Defeat Velstadt, the Royal Aegis; summon Grave Warden Agdayne or Devotee Scarlett. Reward: Soul of Velstadt and 50,000 souls
Vendrick waits in the next room and stays passive unless attacked; take the King's Ring there (King's Ring)
Talk to the Emerald Herald at the top of the steps
Stone Trader Chloanne now stocks Titanite Chunks, a Titanite Slab, Twinkling Titanite, Petrified Dragon Bones and the infusion stones
With the Crushed Eye Orb, approach Licia of Lindelt (finish shopping first) and invade her as a red phantom; she drops the Rotunda Lockstone, Soothing Sunlight, the Saint's set and Idol's Chime
From Ruined Fork Road take the middle archway, grab the Red Tearstone Ring if you skipped it, and open the door by wearing the King's Ring
NG+: Velstadt, the Royal Aegis drops the Royal Soldier's Ring+2
NG+: graveyard corpses now give a Soul of a Brave Warrior, Titanite Chunks and a Large Soul of a Brave Warrior

Aldia's Keep

Grab the Soul of a Nameless Soldier and Petrified Dragon Bone by the bush on the left
Kill the Toxic Rats and loot Poison Throwing Knifes and Alluring Skulls; the corner mimic drops the Dark Mask and Sunset Staff
Light Foregarden and talk to Lucatiel of Mirrah; if she survived three of your boss fights she gives the Mirrah Greatsword and her set (Lucatiel's Trophy)
Up the steps take the Radiant Lifegem in the pool and a Twilight Herb left of the door; Aslatiel of Mirrah invades inside
Light the four hidden sconces (each brings a Forlorn invader) to wake the dragon skeleton in the hall; run as it lunges and it dies, dropping the Aldia Key
Grab the Fading Soul, then go under the stairs to the caged Royal Sorcerer Navlaan
Talk to Royal Sorcerer Navlaan while Hollow to start his hit list: show the Ladder Miniature (Dispelling Ring), Cale's Helm (Simpleton's Spice), Sunset Staff (Forbidden Sun) and Aged Feather (Unleash Magic), then talk again for the Chaos set
As a human you can instead free Royal Sorcerer Navlaan with the lever, but he will invade you later
Royal Sorcerer Navlaan's shop offers Astrologist's and Black Witch pieces, the Moon Hat, Thunder Quartz Ring+2, greatarrows, Dragon Charms, Crimson Waters, Bonfire Ascetics, Great Magic Weapon and Strong Magic Shield
Up the right stairs (red Crystal Lizard) a chest has Great Magic Barrier
Kill the three mirror phantoms and loot a Large Soul of a Brave Warrior, the Northern Ritual Band+2, a Petrified Dragon Bone and a Brightbug
Free the petrified Ogre on the stairs for the Dragon Acolyte Mask
Up the second stairs kill the Giant Basilisk for a Magic Stone, grab the Crimson Water and the Bonfire Ascetics in the chest
Pull the statue chain to open the door, light the corridor with a Pharros' Lockstone and take a Radiant Lifegem (acolytes hide behind paintings)
First left door: Pharros' Lockstone behind shelves, then an illusory wall to the Ritual Site bonfire
Downstairs open the cage, kill two Molerats, then strip and loot the acid pool: Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier, Corrosive Urns, Divine Blessing, Soul Geyser and a Petrified Dragon Bone
Use the Aldia Key on the opposite door: corpses with a Soul of a Proud Knight and Large Soul of a Brave Warrior, and mimics with Cracked Red Eye Orbs, a Bonfire Ascetic and Wilted Dusk Herbs
Pulling the lever releases every caged creature, including mimics with the Black Witch's Staff and a Fragrant Branch of Yore
At the hallway's end bait an Ogre into the wooden door for the Malformed Shell, then grab Simpleton's Spice and a Twilight Herb after another Ogre breaks the wall
Defeat the Guardian Dragon; Sellsword Luet can be summoned in the mirror room. Reward: Guardian Dragon Soul and 37,000 souls
Take the Dragon Scale beyond and ride the lift up to Dragon Aerie
NG+: an acid pool corpse holds a Soul of a Hero, and a dark Painting Guardian can drop Monastery gear and the Monastery Scimitar

Dragon Aerie

Walk up the path, skip the left fork for now and talk to the Emerald Herald for the Aged Feather
Back at the fork, cross the bridge and light the Dragon Aerie bonfire
You can skip the aerie entirely by climbing the ladder, riding the zip line and crossing to the Dragon Shrine
Exploding citizens wreck durability and breaking eggs angers the dragons and can collapse the last bridge, so move carefully; the dragons stay calm unless provoked
Cross the bridge and free the cave statue with a Fragrant Branch of Yore for a Bonfire Ascetic
Kill the Crystal Lizard on the right for a Radiant Lifegem, then three more up the path
The Guardian Dragons here can be killed for loot such as the Flame Quartz Ring+2; another lizard waits up the right ramp
Corpses nearby hold a Darknight Stone, Dragon Tooth, Boltstone and Soul of a Brave Warrior; past the next bridge grab an Old Radiant Lifegem
Over two more bridges, kill the Dark Priestess on the right for a Petrified Dragon Bone and the three Crystal Lizards near the dragon
The second dragon can drop Fire Tempest; loot a Soul of a Great Hero and Large Soul of a Brave Warrior nearby
In the cave drop right, turn around and kill the lizard, then drop to the bottom for another lizard and the third dragon (Twinkling Titanite, Petrified Dragon Bone, Petrified Something)
Collect a Soul of a Great Hero, the Ring of the Evil Eye+1, a Bleed Stone, a Dragon Charm and a Firedrake Stone
In the right-hand cave drop off the ledge for a Soul of a Brave Warrior and Pharros' Lockstone, then warp back with the Aged Feather
Up the ladder, skip the zip line and drop off the path's ledge for Twinkling Titanite
Ride the zip line and drop onto the platform for a Soul of a Great Hero
Cross the final bridge into the building and light Shrine Entrance
NG+: the cave below the first nest has Elizabeth Mushrooms and the second nest path has extra Petrified Dragon Bones

Dragon Shrine

The Dragon Knights leave you alone unless you skip the Drakekeepers or the glowing knight on the final stairs, or summon a phantom
Kill the first Drakekeeper and open the chest through the right door for Bonfire Ascetics
Use a Pharros' Lockstone on the contraption under the stairs for the Judgment set
Through the left archways and up, a chest has Twinkling Titanite; the tower holds a Faint Stone
Leap over the gap to a chest that rewards the Drakekeeper's Greataxe along with the Drakekeeper's Greatshield
Drop, climb, kill another Drakekeeper, cross the bridge and drop to the chests for a Titanite Slab
In the next area kill the Drakekeeper and take Skeptic's Spice and a Twilight Herb from the alcove
Open the door for the Third Dragon Ring; Dragonfang Villard invades
Up the spiral stairs kill him for the Petrified Egg, and open the chest for Petrified Something
Drop to the ledge for Crystal Magic Weapon and a Fragrant Branch of Yore, then drop again and open the right door
Beat the glowing Dragon Knight on the stairs and walk the long corridor
Speak with the Ancient Dragon to receive the Ashen Mist Heart (Ancient Dragon)
Optionally fight the Ancient Dragon; summon Head of Vengarl or Melinda the Butcher. Reward: Soul of a Giant, Petrified Dragon Bone and 120,000 souls
Return with the Aged Feather
Bring the Petrified Egg to Magerold of Lanafir in Iron Keep to join the Dragon Remnants; he hands over the Ancient Dragon Seal and a Dragon Eye. Incense spells while there
NG+: the chest at the top of the second Drakekeeper's stairs holds three Twinkling Titanite

Memory of Orro

At The Pursuer's old arena in the Forest of Fallen Giants, talk to Benhart of Jugo and touch the giant tree to enter
Talk to Benhart of Jugo again inside, take the left stairs and clear the room
Take the Fading Soul; a Pharros' Lockstone opens a wall with a trapped chest holding Soul of a Hero items
Skip the second contraption (it is a trap); the illusory wall to its right hides the Steel set and a Fire Seed
On the roof, clear the ballistas and hit the wooden support on the far-left wheel to drop a platform
Roll onto the platform and into the room for Simpleton's Spice, Skeptic's Spice and Bonfire Ascetics
Drop through the hole for Wilted Dusk Herbs, then down for a Soul of a Great Hero and Soul Vessel
Across the courtyard grab a Large Soul of a Proud Knight, and climb the ladder for a Soul of a Proud Knight
From the ballista roof drop to the bridge for a Soul of a Brave Warrior
Drop to the roof end and touch the giant's corpse for a Soul of a Giant, then again to leave

Memory of Jeigh

From Cardinal Tower go down the ladder, cross the bridge and open the big door with the King's Ring; light The Place Unbeknownst
Drop down outside for Twinkling Titanite and a Fragrant Branch of Yore, then feather back
Touch the tree to enter; you may summon either Benhart of Jugo (his 3rd fight) or Captain Drummond (needs Vammar first) at the steps
Dodge the falling fireballs, take the Bonfire Ascetic on the first left platform and run from the giant rolling head
Grab the Fire Seed near the end, then defeat the Giant Lord. Reward: Giant Lord Soul, Giant's Kinship and 75,000 souls
Take the Old Radiant Lifegem by the pillar, go down the steps and touch the giant for a Soul of a Giant
NG+: the Giant Lord drops the Ring of Giants+2 and the passage past the head has a Divine Blessing

Memory of Vammar

Touch the tree beside Pate's first location to enter
Talk to Captain Drummond to learn Hurrah!
After finishing Memory of Jeigh, Captain Drummond gives the Drangleic Helm (Holder of the Fort)
Left door: chest with a Smooth & Silky Stone; the other door (wall breaker) leads to a Fire Seed
Through the wall hole, up the left ramp for a Large Soul of a Nameless Soldier
Rush right to the ladder, cross the roof and drop for the Giant Warrior Club; left side of the building has a chest with Petrified Something
Up the ladder and over the bridge, clear the roof for a Soul of a Great Hero and Bonfire Ascetic
Out the back, take the Rouge Water, then up the steps for an Old Radiant Lifegem, Soul of a Great Hero and Torch
Touch the giant for a Soul of a Giant and again to exit
NG+: the chest past Drummond holds a Petrified Something, and the exit has a Soul of a Great Hero and Crimson Waters

Dragon Memories

From Lower Brightstone Cove go back to Freja's arena and examine the new formation
Walk ahead and examine the dead dragon for the Ancient Dragon Soul, then examine it again to leave
Warp back with the Aged Feather

Shulva, Sanctum City

You need the Dragon Talon from behind the forgotten door in Majula's pit, and a bow with arrows
From Hidden Chamber in Black Gulch, cross the boss room and touch the shrine behind the primal bonfire
Collect Dragon Charms and light Sanctum Walk; the stairs left lead to Old Growth Balms and a later shortcut
Around the corner shoot the obelisk across the gap, drop to the raised platform and climb the building roof for the Poisonbite Ring+1
Raise more pillars to crush the Sanctum Soldiers, grab Lifegems, then ride the second platform up to a roof with the Dark Quartz Ring+3
Shoot the obelisk below to reach the Long Bow +7, then take the Poison Stone on the path
In the room of Corrosive Egg Insects, a corner body has a Goldenfruit Balm; go around the ledge for an Old Growth Balm
Use the other building's obelisks to extend platforms, grabbing Lightning Urns and an Elizabeth Mushroom upstairs in the insect room
By the poison statue cluster collect Poison Throwing Knifes and Cracked Red Eye Orbs, then Magic Bolts beside another obelisk
Hit that obelisk and ride the rising structure into the building to light Tower of Prayer
Drop to a ledge for a Dried Root, then grab the Sanctum Mace in the room and drop down the floor hole
Shoot the visible obelisks uphill for Lloyd's Talismans and Twinkling Titanite, and activate the last one behind the building
From the front, drop to a platform, shoot the obelisk and ride it to a cave; wait at the top for Torches
The cave has the Notched Whip +7 and Promised Walk of Peace; its tree drops Dried Roots and repairs whips that hit it
Back at the bonfire, drop to the first platform for Darknight Stones, then ride the middle one for the Thunder Quartz Ring+3
At the bottom cross the bridge for Rusted Coins, then roll through the pots behind the building for Focus Souls

Dragon's Sanctum

In the tunnel past the locked door, hit the wall switch for a Soul of a Great Hero and Dragon Charm
In the altar room, smash the glowing bodies so the ghost knights become solid, then kill them
Loot this room's chests (Titanite Slab, Soul Vessel, Catarina Helm, Old Growth Balms, Destructive Greatarrows); next door a trapped chest gives Dried Roots
Shoot the ceiling switch for a chest with Twinkling Titanite and Petrified Dragon Bones
Kill the Sanctum Priestess below, take the Human Effigy, then rotate the floor mechanism to pass
Grab Repair Powder in the left alcove, jump the floor hole and shoot the switch through the tiny window, then the one high ahead
Avoid the pressure plate before the stairs (wall spikes) and grab a Soul of a Hero and Human Effigy
Bottom chests: Boltstones, Bleed Stones, Twinkling Titanite, Petrified Dragon Bones and the Puzzling Stone Sword
Drop through the hallway hole, clear the insect eggs, loot Dung Pies, Lifegems and Old Growth Balms, then climb for Poison Throwing Knifes and Flynn's Ring
Back through the stairs hole, hug the right wall past spikes, kill the priestess and use the ceiling switch to lower spikes
Shoot the switch high on the wall from the stairs, jump through the opened door, light Lair of the Imperfect and grab the Sanctum Crossbow
Across the bridge a priestess waits; the switch there opens a shortcut, and a trapped chest gives Lloyd's Talismans
Destroy every glowing body in the knight room below and take the Eternal Sanctum Key and Sanctum Knight Helm
Drop right for the Bloodbite Ring+1, then loot Torches, Twinkling Titanite, Holy Water Urns and a Human Effigy on the main level
A switch on a bridge support opens a room with the Dragon Stone
Shoot the spinning device's switch three times (through both holes) to reach Denial
Descend for an Old Growth Balm; Jester Thomas invades on the way down
Past the fog follow the right wall, kill the Imperfect, take Petrified Dragon Bones and light Sanctum Interior
Clear the flooded hall for Human Effigy items, Dried Roots and a Soul of a Great Hero
Insert the Dragon Stone to raise the bridge, hit the obelisk for the lift and first go up the path for the Drakeblood Greatsword
Ride both lifts for a shortcut to Sanctum Walk, then grab a Human Effigy and climb into Dragon's Rest

Dragon's Rest

Drop down the broken stairs, through the door, then along the bridges into the room ahead
Kill the Drakeblood Knight and turn the switch until the big circle is up, releasing four Crystal Lizards
Take the stairs across, hug the right wall for Hexing Urns and beat the next Drakeblood Knight
On the outer edge go left twice; an illusory wall halfway along hides a bonfire
Downstairs beat two Drakeblood Knights and follow the left wall to a corpse with the Drakeblood set
Past the bonfire take the broken bridge down, jump left for Vine Balms and kill the last two knights
Grab the Twinkling Titanite, Large Soul of a Brave Warrior and Small Smooth & Silky Stones, then descend to the fog
Defeat Elana, Squalid Queen; summon Steelheart Ellie or Benhart of Jugo (counts for his quest). She calls skeletons, pigs or a phantom Velstadt. Reward: Soul of Elana, Squalid Queen and 72,000 souls
Light Sanctum Nadir past the arena
Defeat Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon; summon Transcendent Edde or Abbess Feeva. Carry spare weapons or repair options. Reward: Soul of Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon and 96,000 souls
Examine the glowing orb for the Crown of the Sunken King and take Yorgh's Ring from a corpse

Cave of the Dead

From Tower of Prayer drop to the bottom, cross both bridges and open the locked door with the Eternal Sanctum Key
Past the priestesses, chests hold Dried Roots, the Lightning Clutch Ring and Bonfire Ascetics
Climb three ladders (insect ambush) for the Sanctum Shield, then cross the bridge
Beat the invader Rockshield Baldyr and light the bonfire; carry a torch for the dark cave
Hit the obelisk for the lift, go through the fog and drop; Rapacious Andrei and Ruined Alfis can be summoned here
Clear each level slowly (petrifying statues, Sanctum Soldiers, statue clusters, a wall worm) and loot Petrified Somethings, Brightbugs and Bonfire Ascetics
Defeat Graverobber, Varg, and Cerah; kill Cerah first. Reward: Petrified Dragon Bones, Twinkling Titanite, a Titanite Slab and 60,000 souls
Opposite the entrance a chest has the Flower Skirt and a corpse has Blackweed Balms
Drop down the hole, go right along the ledge to the Dark Greatsword hex, then back the other way for Torches
Jump to the platform, drop to the bridge and ride the lift back to the bonfire

Brume Tower

You need the Heavy Iron Key from the salamander pit in the Forest of Fallen Giants, and Iron Keep must be cleared
From Eygil's Idol walk past the primal bonfire and touch the serpent shrine, then open the door upstairs with the Heavy Iron Key and ride up
Take the Smelter Wedges from the dormant idol, cross the long chain and light Throne Floor
Ashen Idols buff or heal enemies and die only to a Smelter Wedge; each of the 11 idols plus the Fume Knight gives a fragment that combines into the Soul of Nadalia, Bride of Ash
Save four wedges for the idols outside the Fume Knight's arena; the first idol here is harmless and can wait
Take the left stairs down for the Dexterity Ring, then the right doorway and platforms for Old Growth Balms
Outside (Ashen Warriors burst from the ash) take Twilight Herbs and walk through the ash figures for a Large Soul of a Proud Knight
Drop right of the stairs for Rouge Water, descend the ladder for a Blackweed Balm, then the next ladder for the Scythe +7 and Prism Stones
Around the corner a chest has a Titanite Slab; the lower ledge past a Possessed Armor has Human Effigy items and a Bonfire Ascetic
Drop into the idol room and wedge the idol quickly; a nearby chest holds Dance of Fire
Pull the lever for the giant door, go left, smash ash figures for Old Mundane Stones, take Lloyd's Talismans and open the illusory wall for Old Radiant Lifegems, Wilted Dusk Herbs and Soul Vessels
Through the right door (explosive barrels) kill the Possessed Armor for a Goldenfruit Balm, climb down for the Caestus +8 and light Upper Floor
Past it a chest by a locked door has Twinkling Titanite
In the round room's lower level, push the Cask Runners through the trapdoor instead of killing them, break the barrel-blocked door and kill the Ashen Warrior
In the next room herd more Cask Runners, take a Radiant Lifegem, then lure the warriors and blow the barrels with fire
Grab the Flame Quartz Ring+3 and wedge the buffing idol
Pull the lever and loot Twinkling Titanite, a Human Effigy, Large Titanite Shards and a Dried Root; watch for Fume Sorcerers and a rear ambush
Take another Human Effigy, climb down and break the ash figures for a Large Soul of a Proud Knight, Soul of a Hero and Soul of a Great Hero
Through the fog, follow the right path to light Foyer; downstairs a corpse has a Raw Stone
Wear the Black Witch Veil or Hollow Skin against the cursing idol, cross the chain and fight Mauldron the Assassin; grab the Bonfire Ascetics before chasing him
In the tower wedge the cursing idol, take Silver Talismans, the Alonne Greatbow +5, the Majestic Greatsword and Palestones at the bottom
In the round room take the Spell Quartz Ring+3, then Magic Stones down the hall
Open the gates past three Fume Sorcerers, send the flame head down the hall and blow the cracked walls with Cask Runners: Petrified Dragon Bones, Catarina Gauntlets and Catarina Leggings
Lure the Iron Warrior into the barrel room, open the last gates and climb left to open a shortcut to Foyer
Past the chain and fog, ignite the Scorchers and kill them; take Petrified Dragon Bones, fight Quicksword Rachel and reach a Dried Root midway down the ladder
At the bottom take Twinkling Titanite and Recollection, then clear the Scorcher room for the Scorching Iron Scepter
Call the lift back up, then use the Scorching Iron Scepter on the mechanism in the round room to start the lifts
On the second lift, look for an illusory wall on the back wall as it rises; the room behind has the Hollow Skin
At the top go right: Lacerating Knifes, two Possessed Armors and two warriors, then blow the cracked wall with a Cask Runner for the Dispelling Ring+1
The last alcove's chest has four more Smelter Wedges
Down the lift, cross to the iron door: wedge the healing idol, then take the Life Ring+3 plus Titanite Shards, the Broadsword +7, a Petrified Something and Flame Butterfly items; boxes hide Titanite Chunks and a Titanite Slab
Up the next lift kill two Possessed Armors, brave the fire for an Old Radiant Lifegem, open the shortcut and grab the Simpleton's Ring
Step off the descending lift onto a narrow ledge chest with the Pilgrim's Spontoon; another lift stop leads past a Crystal Lizard to Brightbugs
Three Iron Warriors rise from the ash field. Its ash statues hide Human Effigy items, Charcoal Pine Resins, Wilted Dusk Herbs, Skeptic's Spice, Twinkling Titanite and Titanite Chunks
Take the Tower Key near the cliff, then hop off the next lift onto the top bridge for the Strength Ring
Descend level by level for the Partizan +6, beat the Iron Warrior, and run past the revived Possessed Armors
The right room has the Sorcery Clutch Ring; the left lift leads down; hug the right side and run to light Lowermost Floor
Shatter all four idols around the arena, then defeat the Fume Knight; summon Steelheart Ellie or Carhillion of the Fold. Reward: Soul of the Fume Knight, the last fragment and 84,000 souls
Behind the arena take the Crown of the Old Iron King
From Foyer go left and open the door with the Tower Key; wear curse protection, rush down to wedge the idol and loot Fire Snake, Large Titanite Shards and Old Radiant Lifegems
NG++: dark Rogue spirits appear and can drop Rogue gear, the Wanderer Hood, a Notched Whip and a Crimson Parma

Memory of the Old Iron King

From Foyer ride two lifts up, unlock the left door and take the third lift
Five red phantoms wait at the top, healed by an idol; wedge it first, then go up and light the bonfire
Examine the glowing armour to enter; you can summon Drifter Swordsman Aidel and Steel-willed Lorrie here
Fight through the Alonne Knights, using side doors to get behind the Flame Salamanders
The big room has Small Smooth & Silky Stones, Human Effigy items and Skeptic's Spice, with Rusted Coins in the first left doorway
Drop down the hole ahead (salamander fire through the grates), take the right stairs for the Twinblade +7
Circle behind the next salamander through the right door, then loot Repair Powder and Radiant Lifegems
Defeat Sir Alonne; win without taking a hit for a special finish. Reward: Soul of Sir Alonne and 80,000 souls
Examine the chair beyond for the last Smelter Wedge, then again to leave
At Throne Floor, jump to the lift for the Baneful Bird Ring, wedge the nearby idol and complete the Soul of Nadalia, Bride of Ash

Iron Passage

From Foyer ride the lift down and use the Tower Key; grab a Twilight Herb, ride down and light Iron Hallway Entrance
Summon Drifter Swordsman Aidel and Steel-willed Lorrie here only after the first route, since they cannot follow your rush
Pull the lever to free the Ashen Warriors and grab the Large Titanite Shards; the timed gate shuts, so reset at the bonfire and rush through next time
Kill the Astrologist, go left through the hole without dropping and take the Crimson Water
The other lever's cells hold Simpleton's Spice and Torches
On the right path drop down, kill the Possessed Armor and loot Old Growth Balms and Cracked Red Eye Orbs; a ledge below has a Dried Root
Take the left path along the upper ledge for Wilted Dusk Herbs and reach the fog
Defeat the Blue Smelter Demon; same moves as the Iron Keep one but with magic damage. Reward: Smelter Demon Soul and 75,000 souls
Through the tunnel a corpse has the Pharros Mask; ride the lift back to the bonfire

Frozen Eleum Loyce

You need the Frozen Flower from Drangleic Castle
From Ruined Fork Road take the middle path toward the Shrine of Winter and touch the serpent shrine; go through and light Outer Wall
The blizzard freezes paths and hides Aava until you hold the Eye of the Priestess, so get that first
First room on the right: Radiant Lifegems; across the bridge a corpse has a Goldenfruit Balm (Retainers stay passive for now)
In the courtyard grab the Winged Spear +7 and Torches, then Small Blue Burrs through the left archway past the fountain
Inside the building go up to the roof and drop through the gap for Monastery Charms and the Dark Clutch Ring
Left and upstairs, break crates for the Old Bell Helm, then drop through the other door and light Abandoned Dwelling
Right at the tree, the Ring of the Embedded sits on a snowdrift; circle the building for Dark Dance
Kill the Rampart Golem on the bridge for Radiant Lifegems and pull the lever for the big doors
Climb right, cross the bridge (invisible ballista crews), pass the Ice Golem doorway and pull the lever to call the lift
Past the door an invisible ladder leads to Splintering Lightning Spear; jump the ramp gap for a Soul of a Great Hero and go down for a Human Effigy
Downstairs take Crimson Water, then cross the bridge and climb for the Eye of the Priestess
Follow the path for Alluring Skulls and Skeptic's Spice and light the bonfire past the fog
From Outer Wall go left and defeat Aava, the King's Pet; summon Steelheart Ellie or Masterless Glencour. Reward: Soul of Aava, the King's Pet and 78,000 souls
Climb into the Grand Cathedral and light its bonfire
Talk to Alsanna, Silent Oracle up the carpeted stairs and agree to help; the blizzard ends
She mentions the missing Loyce Knights: bringing back all three makes the final fight far easier
Back the way you came, open the chest for the Vessel Shield
From Outer Wall go right through the thawed area: Soul Flash in a chest and the Northwarder set up a ladder
Retainers now attack. In the alley take a Dried Root, the Retainer Staff and Goldenfruit Balms; Repair Powder by the fountain
Ride the bridge lift, beware Ice Rats, grab Monastery Charms and Twilight Herbs; Hexer Nicholai invades
Collect Old Growth Balms and Amber Herbs, climb for Boltstones, cross a bridge for Magic Stones and light the next bonfire
The friendly-looking phantom upstairs is Mauldron the Assassin; kill him and chase him down
Pull the lever; the frost Covetous Demon below drops the Ivory Warrior Ring
Loot Dried Roots, the Large Club +8, Twinkling Titanite, Crimson Water and Smooth & Silky Stones
Open the shortcut through the cave, then avoid killing near the dormant Facsimile Giants; take Charcoal Pine Resins and a Pharros' Lockstone
Ride up, go right for Vine Balms and approach the first Loyce Knight to send him home
Roll the snowy boulder to close the bridge gap, then cross for Azal's Staff, Radiant Lifegems and Cracked Red Eye Orbs
Roof chests: Soul Vessel, Sorcerer's Twinblade and Divine Blessings
Light the four sconces past the narrow pass to open the door; an illusory wall leads to the Bone Fist
Kill the Retainers and Flexile Sentry for the Garrison Ward Key, then the second Sentry and climb for Human Effigy items
Cross the bridge, open the door with the Garrison Ward Key and light Expulsion Chamber; its coffin leads to the Frigid Outskirts
The far-right mimic drops the Catarina Armor; chests hold a Titanite Slab, Old Radiant Lifegems, Bonfire Ascetics and Brightbugs
Over the bridge to the right take Prism Stones, Goldenfruit Balms and a Large Soul of a Brave Warrior; a Pharros' Lockstone reveals Durgo's Hat
In the next building a balcony has the Priest's Chime +8; up the ladder take Elizabeth Mushrooms and open a shortcut
Two ladders down a balcony holds the Ring of Resistance+1; the back room chest has Wilted Dusk Herbs
Follow the rampart, use the lift shortcut, beat Castaway Witch Donna and send the second Loyce Knight home
Ride back up, take the right path to the bonfire and pull its lever. In the next room a mimic on the left drops the Symbol of Avarice; the real chest has Petrified Dragon Bones plus Twinkling Titanite
Take the Dried Roots on the stairs; Holy Knight Aurheim invades
In the room of four Facsimile Giants, pull other foes out first and bring all giants low before finishing them together; the chest has the Curved Nil Greatsword
Smash barrels upstairs to expose and kill Aurheim, take Silver Talismans and cross the bridge
Send the third Loyce Knight home and open the shortcut behind him
Left of his room, an illusory wall before the Flame Butterfly corpse leads to the Fire Clutch Ring
Drop along the bridges for the Twin-Headed Greatbow at the hallway end
From the Grand Cathedral pass Alsanna, Silent Oracle, drop into the Old Chaos and defeat the Burnt Ivory King; summon Lucatiel of Mirrah or Twiggy Shei. Survive the Charred Loyce Knight waves first. Reward: Soul of the Ivory King and 92,000 souls
Touch the orb for the Crown of the Ivory King, then the light to return
Alsanna, Silent Oracle trades Loyce Souls for the Loyce Gauntlets, Loyce Leggings, Loyce Armor, Loyce Helm and the Soul of Alsanna

Frigid Outskirts

Rest in the coffin at Expulsion Chamber to travel here
Whiteouts spawn Ice Stallions; stay put until the snow clears to avoid getting lost
Take the Blackweed Balm from another coffin and head for the stone circle; Head of Vengarl, Abbess Feeva and Manhunter O'Harrah can be summoned in the ruins
First building: Dried Root inside and the Mirrah Hat outside; a corpse halfway on has Lacerating Knifes
Use a Pharros' Lockstone in the next building only if you want its healing pool
Grab Twinkling Titanite and then Human Effigy items from the next buildings
On a cliff ledge a body has the Ring of the Living
Go left over the bridge (no new stallions spawn there) and defeat Lud and Zallen, the King's Pets; Zallen joins mid-fight. Reward: Soul of Lud, the King's Pet, Soul of Zallen, the King's Pet and 56,000 souls
Step into the light to leave
NG++: dark Archdrake and Faraam spirits in the ruins drop pieces of their armour sets

Vendrick

Each Soul of a Giant you carry lowers Vendrick's defences; get at least four first
From Undead Ditch return to Velstadt's arena and defeat Vendrick (no summons). Reward: 90,000 souls
Examine the armour pile to enter the Memory of the King and talk to him; with all three DLC crowns you receive his blessing for this cycle
At Crumbled Ruins in Shrine of Amana, follow the submerged path as a human, cut the vines and open the door
The chair inside holds the Soul of the King, and a chest beside it contains the King's armour set

Throne of Want

From King's Gate go out and down to the left and open the door with the King's Ring
Talk to the Emerald Herald and follow the path to the fog
Defeat the Throne Watcher and Throne Defender; summon Benhart of Jugo (left) or Head of Vengarl (right). Reward: Throne Watcher Soul, Throne Defender Soul and 68,000 souls
Nashandra appears only if the Giant Lord is dead; defeat her with your summons. Reward: Soul of Nashandra and 90,000 souls
Then defeat Aldia, Scholar of the First Sin; no reward, but it opens the second ending
Sit on the throne or walk away to choose your ending (The Heir)
You return to Majula to finish up before starting the next cycle
NG+: the Throne Watcher and Throne Defender also drop the Ring of the Evil Eye+2

Miscellaneous Tasks

Stone Trader Chloanne now sells unlimited Titanite Chunks
Talk to Cale the Cartographer in the Majula mansion once every map flame is lit for the Cale set (Curious Map)
Bring Royal Sorcerer Navlaan the four proofs to collect all his rewards
If Benhart of Jugo survived three of your boss fights, find him by the Memory of Orro tree for the Bluemoon Greatsword and Benhart's set (Moonlight Greatsword)
With the Ashen Mist Heart, King's Ring and every great soul, Grave Warden Agdayne and Strowen hand out their extra gifts
Make sure Emerald Herald, Crestfallen Saulden, Blacksmith Lenigrast, Sweet Shalquoir, Maughlin the Armourer, Merchant Hag Melentia, Cale the Cartographer, Licia of Lindelt, Carhillion of the Fold, Stone Trader Chloanne, Laddersmith Gilligan and Rosabeth of Melfia are all alive in Majula at once (Gathering of Exiles)
Reinforce any weapon to its maximum level (Supreme Weapon)
Reach the top rank in any covenant (Selfless Giver)
Covenant ranks also hold spells you need: Hidden Weapon (Bell Keepers rank 2) and Sunlight Spear (Heirs of the Sun rank 3); the Dragon Remnants ranks give the Dragon Head Stone and Dragon Torso Stone
For the spell achievements, trade boss souls to Straid of Olaphis: Heavy Homing Soul Arrow (Ruin Sentinel Soul), Soul Shower (Scorpioness Najka Soul), Toxic Mist (Royal Rat Vanguard Soul), Acid Surge (Royal Rat Authority Soul)
More soul trades with Straid of Olaphis: Sacred Oath for the Soul of Velstadt, Repel for the Giant Lord Soul, Lifedrain Patch for the Darklurker Soul and Outcry for the full Soul of Nadalia, Bride of Ash

Dark Chasm of Old

Leave this for late: the portals are tough and every attempt costs a Human Effigy
After meeting Darkdiver Grandahl in all three places, join the Pilgrims of Dark
From Hidden Chamber in Black Gulch, go up and drop by the first worm to his ledge; offer a Human Effigy to open the portal
Inside, kill six foes (two heavy, two pyromancers, two shades), light the cauldron with a torch lit from a Flame Butterfly and drop down the misty hole
Speak to Darkdiver Grandahl afterwards to rank up and get Resonant Soul
From Under Castle Drangleic in Drangleic Castle, open his portal and clear the four foes without falling off the ledges; light the cauldron and drop down
From Shaded Ruins in Shaded Woods, drop down the hole by the second tower and clear his third portal (four foes)
The third portal also leads to the Darklurker; no summons. Reward: Darklurker Soul and 35,000 souls
Rank up with Darkdiver Grandahl after all three for Great Resonant Soul, and after the boss for Climax, the Xanthous set and the Dragon Chime

New Game Plus Preparation

Hunt down any Crystal Lizards you missed
Trade remaining boss souls with Straid of Olaphis and Weaponsmith Ornifex
Buy any boss armour from Maughlin the Armourer and NPC sets from Merchant Hag Melentia
Stock up on Titanite from Stone Trader Chloanne and upgrade with Blacksmith Lenigrast
Infuse gear with Steady Hand McDuff now; the Dull Ember must be found again next cycle
Use Magerold of Lanafir to incense spells and Rosabeth of Melfia to upgrade your Pyromancy Flame
Buy arrows and consumables, and switch to the covenant you want to start the next cycle in
Kill any NPCs whose drops you still need; sin carries over, so Blue Sentinels may invade
Keys, the King's Ring and unused Fragrant Branch of Yores are lost on the next cycle
When ready, rest at the Far Fire in Majula and start the next journey

New Game Plus Tasks

Play through again; No-man's Wharf, Undead Purgatory and Doors of Pharros can be skipped
Kill The Lost Sinner for the Old Witch Soul and trade it to Straid of Olaphis for Flame Weapon
Kill The Duke's Dear Freja for the Old Paledrake Soul and trade it for Crystal Soul Spear
Kill the Old Iron King for the Old King Soul and trade it for Blinding Bolt
Kill The Rotten for the Old Dead One Soul and trade it for Numbness
Collect the NG+ boss rings: Chloranthy Ring+2, Clear Bluestone Ring+2, Covetous Silver Serpent Ring+2, Covetous Gold Serpent Ring+2, Southern Ritual Band+2, Ring of Blades+2, Royal Soldier's Ring+2, Ring of Steel Protection+2, Ring of Giants+2 and Ring of the Evil Eye+2
After the required bosses, buy the Moon Butterfly Wings, Moon Butterfly Cuffs and Moon Butterfly Skirt from Maughlin the Armourer
A Bonfire Ascetic at an area's bonfire also unlocks that area's NG+ items in your current cycle

New Game ++ Tasks

Rush to Drangleic Castle; you can open the Shrine of Winter with enough current-cycle souls instead of the four great souls
Buy Bountiful Sunlight, Wrath of the Gods and Great Chaos Fireball from Chancellor Wellager
Maughlin the Armourer now sells the Moon Butterfly Hat, and the chest above his shop holds the Moon Butterfly Shield