In the immersive world of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, players encounter numerous Non-Player Characters (NPCs) who enrich the storyline with their unique backgrounds and quests. Among these, Ansbach stands out as a pivotal character with a compelling questline that interweaves with the main narrative. A former leader of the Pureblood Knights under Lord Mohg, Ansbach has transitioned from a life of combat to one of information gathering. This article provides an in-depth guide to navigating Ansbach’s questline, from locating him to making critical decisions that influence the game's outcome.
Locating Ansbach in Gravesite Plain
To initiate Ansbach’s quest, players must first visit the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace and converse with Hornsent. Here, they obtain the map of Miquella’s Crosses, which highlights three significant locations: the Three-Path Cross site, a site west near Belurat, and another northeast in Castle Ensis.
Embark on your journey to Miquella’s Cross west of Belurat, where you’ll find Ansbach standing by the cross near the main gate, accompanied by another NPC in full armor. During your first interaction, Ansbach reveals his shift from fighting to a focus on investigation. He is hesitant to offer his assistance unless he deems it beneficial.
Progressing Through Ansbach’s Quest
Discovering More Crosses
After your initial meeting, Ansbach tasks you with locating additional Miquella’s Crosses beyond the three shown by Hornsent. He mentions a total of six crosses. To progress, visit and interact with:
- Miquella’s Cross in Belurat, near the Stagefront Site of Grace.
- Miquella’s Cross in Scadu Altus, close to the Scaduview Cross Site of Grace.
- Miquella’s Cross on the Southern Shore at the Cerulean Coast Cross Site of Grace.
Upon discovering these crosses, return to Ansbach to share your findings. He will provide you with valuable lore and insights, furthering your understanding of Miquella’s motives and actions.
After Visiting Belurat
Once you have explored Belurat and reached Miquella’s Cross near the Stagefront Site of Grace, return to Ansbach. He will express his gratitude and share more about Miquella, hinting at his intentions to gain entry to the tower of shadow.
The Breaking of the Great Rune
As you approach Shadow Keep, a pivotal event occurs: a great rune breaks, accompanied by a spell’s dissolution. This dramatic shift affects the NPCs, including Ansbach. His perception of Miquella changes drastically, branding him a monster. Ansbach then decides to flee, moving on from the Main Gate Cross Site of Grace.
Ansbach’s Location at Shadow Keep
At Shadow Keep, navigate to the Storehouse, First Floor from the Main Gate Plaza to find Ansbach. Proceed to the northeast of the room, circle left around the statue, then turn right and ascend the stairs. Locate the room behind the bookshelves on the northeastern side where Ansbach resides.
Ansbach, seeking a fresh start, contemplates his past and the fate of Mohg’s body, which has been taken by Miquella. Engage in conversation to uncover his reflections and regrets.
Finding the Secret Rite Scroll
On the fourth floor of Shadow Keep, you will encounter another of Miquella’s Crosses and a Site of Grace. Nearby, a scroll lies to the right of the cross. This is the Secret Rite Scroll. Retrieve it, and you face a choice: give the scroll to Ansbach or keep it.
Handing Over the Secret Rite Scroll
If you decide to give Ansbach the Secret Rite Scroll, he acknowledges that you have provided the answers he sought, paving the way for a future encounter later in the game. However, be cautious: delivering the scroll before speaking to Redmane Freyja will cause Ansbach to leave the area upon your next rest or travel, potentially hindering your progress in Freyja's questline.
Withholding the Secret Rite Scroll
Opting not to hand over the scroll results in Ansbach remaining at the Storehouse, First Floor. This decision impacts your ability to summon him later in the game, particularly during critical battles. Instead, you will have the Sanguine Noble Nataan as an alternative summonable character, affecting the final boss fight dynamics.
Conclusion
Ansbach’s questline in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is a richly woven narrative that requires strategic decisions and careful exploration. From uncovering hidden crosses to navigating the complexities of NPC interactions, players must balance their choices to unlock the full depth of Ansbach’s story. Whether aiding him in his quest for redemption or making pivotal choices that alter the game’s trajectory, Ansbach’s storyline offers a rewarding and intricate journey within the expansive world of Elden Ring.
