Murkwater Cave Location Elden Ring Walkthrough

Elden Ring invites players into a vast world filled with hidden secrets, challenging dungeons, and unpredictable characters. Among the earliest subterranean locations you can explore is Murkwater Cave, a seemingly minor cavern that holds massive significance for your journey through the Lands Between. Finding this location early on can grant you access to unique items and a classic FromSoftware encounter that should not be missed.

Finding the Murkwater Cave Location

To reach this hidden dungeon, you must begin your journey from the Agheel Lake North Site of Grace situated in central Limgrave. Head directly east toward the large ravine that feeds into the northern edge of the massive lake. Carefully descend into the muddy riverbed and follow the narrow canyon path heading further north.

As you progress deeper into the ravine, be prepared for a sudden ambush by Bloody Finger Nerijus, a hostile NPC invader. Fortunately, the noble hunter Bloody Finger Hunter Yura will arrive shortly to assist you in defeating this dangerous threat. Once the path is secure, continue along the western cliff face of the canyon until you spot a burning campfire marking the cave entrance.

Navigating the Bandits and Traps

Stepping inside Murkwater Cave requires caution, as the dark interior is heavily guarded by a group of treacherous highwaymen. The initial chamber features a tripwire connected to small bells designed to alert the local sentries of your presence. Crouching and moving slowly allows you to take out the distracted bandits one by one before they can group up.

The cave system splits into two primary paths from the main intersection room. Following the passage to the right leads to a dead end filled with minor crafting resources and a small squad of guards. Clearing this side room ensures you will not be ambushed from behind during the main event located down the left tunnel.

The Boss Fight with Patches

Proceeding through the left passage brings you to a large fog gate leading into an seemingly abandoned cavern storage room. Inside, you will find a solitary treasure chest sitting conspicuously in the middle of the chamber. Opening this chest triggers a cutscene, initiating an unconventional boss encounter with the notorious recurring character Patches.

Patches fights using a large spear and an imposing tower shield, utilizing defensive counterattacks to punish reckless movements. He is susceptible to stance breaking, so heavy jumping attacks or well-timed guard counters can quickly lower his defenses. Keep your pressure consistent while avoiding his spear thrusts to safely reduce his health pool.

Sparing Patches and Unlocking the Shop

Unlike traditional bosses in the Lands Between, Patches will panic and beg for mercy once his health drops to roughly half. Cease your attacks immediately and wait a few moments for the combat sequence to officially conclude. Sparing his life turns him into a valuable merchant who eventually sets up a unique shop right inside the damp cave.

After reloading the area or resting at a nearby Site of Grace, return to Patches to browse his exclusive inventory. His selection includes Margit's Shackle, a crucial tool that can temporarily pin down the first major boss of the game. For players looking to expand their options early on, checking out this can provide a massive advantage for the challenging battles ahead.