Deep Docks Walkthrough

Welcome to the second part of our Hollow Knight: Silksong walkthrough. After ascending from the Moss Grotto, you will find yourself in the Deep Docks, an industrial, lava-filled region defined by clanking elevators and the chiming of bells.

Deep Docks

Overview

• Main Boss Lace
• Next Area TBA

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Full Deep Docks Walkthrough

1. Into the Forge

   From your starting point, head west to a lift. Take it all the way down to the lowest floor and sprint right into a new area.

   • Here you’ll encounter your first enemy: a Flying Insect Thrower with a bell-shaped head. It hurls explosive projectiles that burst on impact. Watch the blast radius and either bait the shots before moving in, or use ranged attacks to stay safe.
   • Climb the platforms, then hit the switch in the top-left corner to activate another lift.
   • Ride it up and check the right side for a Shard Bundle near a deceased bug. This is your first reward for exploring.
   • Return to the lowest platform and proceed through the next doorway.

2. Path to the Gate Key

   In this new section, strike the switch to unlock access to the lower floors. Begin descending, zig-zagging through platforms until you reach the bottom.

   • The right path is locked for now.
   • Head left, ride the lift down one more level, and continue left to discover the Gate Key. This is essential to unlock the boss chamber later.

3. The Gauntlet

   With the key in hand, head right into an arena where you’ll face enemy waves. Survive to open the way forward:

   • Flying Insect Thrower: Prioritize dodging, then punish with jump attacks.
   • Bug Spearer: Uses lunging thrusts. Sidestep or jump behind it and counter during recovery.
   • Shielded Bug Charger: The toughest of the group. It rushes forward and can leap into a dive attack. Bait its charge, roll or jump past, and strike from behind. Tip: This section is a resource check—keep some healing charges for later.

4. The Forge-Daughter

   After clearing the gauntlet, ascend into the next chamber. Here you’ll meet the Forge-Daughter, a blacksmith-like NPC who will eventually upgrade your equipment.

   • On your first visit, she’s busy, but she’ll encourage you to return later with the right materials.
   • To her left, there’s a Bench where you can rest and refill.
   • Nearby is a switch that opens a shortcut back to the earlier section, letting you bypass the long descent if you die.

5. Boss Battle: Lace

   From the Bench, continue upward to reach the locked gate you passed earlier. Use the Gate Key to unlock it.

   • Beyond lies the boss chamber where you’ll face Lace, a swift and deadly rival. Her agility and rapid combos can shred your health bar quickly.
   • Study her movements, punish her recovery windows, and don’t heal recklessly.
   • For a detailed breakdown of her moveset and counters, see the Lace Boss Guide.

Veteran's Note: A Bell-Ringing Puzzle

The Deep Docks introduces the theme of bells and puzzles. In a sub-area called the Wild Songshrine, you can find a massive bell. Striking it and activating a lever triggers a sequence, lighting candles in a specific order. This is likely a major secret or progression gate. Pay attention to auditory cues in this region.