How Did Gwyn Go Hollow: The Fall Of The Lord Of Sunlight

Gwyn’s Lord Soul kept the fire burning for centuries, but it left him hollow. We know this because at least a thousand years have passed since the events in Dark Souls began.

It’s important to understand what hollowing means in the world of Dark Souls. It’s a process that happens when a being loses their connection to the First Flame, the source of life and light in their world. This connection is weakened over time, and eventually, the being becomes hollow. We see this in many characters throughout the Dark Souls series, and it’s a big part of the lore.

When Gwyn used his Lord Soul to keep the First Flame burning, he essentially traded his own lifespan for the continued existence of the world. This act, while noble, ultimately doomed him to hollowing.

You can see the effects of this in his appearance. His once powerful body is now frail, and his eyes have lost their light, reflecting a deep emptiness. He’s not just physically weakened; his spirit is fading as well.

This is a key aspect of Gwyn’s story and a reminder that even the most powerful beings are not immune to the effects of hollowing.

In Dark Souls 2, Gwyn’s linking the first flame was considered a sin. This was because it went against the natural order of things, creating the fire linking cycle and the curse of the undead. However, Dark Souls 3 later revealed that the sin was actually related to the Ringed City.

Let’s delve a little deeper into the concept of Gwyn’s sin and the fire linking cycle. The First Flame, a source of immense power, was fading. Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, chose to link the flame to prevent the world from falling into darkness. He did this by sacrificing himself and essentially restarting the cycle of fire. This act, while seemingly noble, had unintended consequences. It trapped the world in an endless loop of decay and rebirth, where life and death were constantly intertwined. The curse of the undead, a side effect of the fire linking cycle, condemned many to an endless cycle of death and resurrection, forced to guard the First Flame and endlessly repeat the cycle.

Although Gwyn’s actions might appear noble on the surface, his actions created a never-ending cycle, preventing the natural progression of the world. This perpetual cycle of life and death fueled the curse of the undead and ultimately trapped everyone in an eternal loop of decay and rebirth. While Gwyn saved the world from complete darkness, he inadvertently created a different kind of darkness—the endless cycle of the fire linking cycle and its accompanying curse.

Gwyn, the Lord of Cinder, is fighting you for a very understandable reason: he’s protecting the First Flame. The First Flame is the source of life in the world of Dark Souls, and Gwyn has dedicated himself to keeping it burning. The problem is, the Flame is slowly dying out, and Gwyn’s own sanity has been eroded by the burden of keeping it alive. He’s essentially a shell of his former self, driven by an instinctual need to protect the Flame.

Imagine you were guarding a very important, fragile thing, and someone was trying to take it away. You might become defensive, even aggressive, even if you weren’t fully in control of your actions. That’s what Gwyn is like. He’s not trying to “stop” you in the sense that he has a plan. He’s simply reacting to the threat you represent to the First Flame, which he has vowed to protect.

Let’s dive a little deeper into this:

Think of it this way: The First Flame is like a battery that powers the world of Dark Souls. When it begins to fade, it starts to affect everything around it, including the beings who rely on it. Gwyn, as the Lord of Cinder, has been tasked with maintaining the Flame, but it’s a draining and ultimately futile task. He’s essentially been holding back the inevitable for as long as he could. Now, he’s reaching his limit, and his actions are fueled by desperation rather than malice. He’s driven by an instinct to protect the Flame, but the Flame itself has consumed his soul and sanity, leaving him a hollow husk.

This is why his fight is so tragic. He’s not a villain, but rather a tragic figure trying to fulfill a promise he can no longer keep. He’s fighting you out of a deep-seated, almost instinctual need to protect the Flame, not out of any personal hatred for you. He’s become a prisoner of his own duty, a protector who is slowly being consumed by the very thing he’s trying to save.

Okay, let’s dive into the Hollowing process in Dark Souls, shall we?

The Darksign is a mark of the Undead, and it fuels their continued existence. However, it also slowly consumes their Dark Soul, which is essentially the source of their will and emotions. Think of it like a battery that’s slowly draining. As the Dark Soul gets consumed, the Undead start losing their grip on sanity. This leads to the gradual process of Hollowing, where their human features fade and they become mindless creatures.

Now, let’s get a little deeper into this.

Imagine this: The Undead are essentially cursed to be trapped in a cycle of death and resurrection. This process leaves a mark on them, the Darksign, which acts like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allows them to keep coming back from the brink of death, defying the natural order. On the other hand, it slowly consumes their soul, like a parasite feeding on its host.

The Dark Soul, as mentioned earlier, is the core of an Undead’s being. It’s what holds their humanity together, their emotions, their will to live, their memories, all of it. As the Darksign devours this precious essence, it leaves a gaping hole in their being. This leads to them becoming less human, their minds becoming foggy, their emotions dulled, and eventually, they lose all semblance of their former selves. They turn into Hollows, driven by primal instincts, unable to feel or think rationally.

So, in a nutshell, Hollowing is like a slow, creeping darkness consuming the Undead from the inside out, stripping them of their humanity and leaving behind hollow shells of their former selves. This happens to all Undead, eventually, if they don’t find a way to break the cycle or resist the Darksign’s grip.

Gwyn didn’t actually burn himself to a crisp. He sacrificed his soul to rekindle the First Flame and maintain the Age of Fire. It’s a subtle but important difference.

Think of it this way: Gwyn didn’t just jump into the flames and die. He used his soul as fuel to keep the fire going. This act of selflessness allowed the world to continue, but it came at a heavy cost.

You see, the First Flame is the source of all life and light in the world of Dark Souls. However, the flame is slowly dying. If it goes out, the world will be plunged into darkness. Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, knew this. He understood the responsibility that came with his role. So, to save the world, he sacrificed himself.

Imagine the world ending in darkness. It’s a grim thought, but it’s the reality that Gwyn faced. He knew that he had to do something, and he knew the only way to save the world was to give up his own soul.

This is why Gwyn is revered as a hero in Dark Souls lore. He is the one who saved the world from oblivion. He is the one who gave his life so that others could live. He is the Lord of Sunlight, and his sacrifice is a testament to his courage and selflessness.

Gwyn, Lord of Cinder and ruler of the Age of Fire, created the undead curse because he feared the potential of humanity. You see, humans, born from the Dark and capable of thriving in the Age of Fire, possessed a unique ability: immortality.

Their souls, unlike those of other beings, didn’t lose power when endlessly split and reincarnated. This meant that humans had the potential to become incredibly powerful over time, possibly even surpassing the gods themselves. Gwyn, driven by a desire to protect his legacy and the Age of Fire, saw this as a threat.

He believed that the undead curse would prevent humanity from becoming too powerful. By forcing them to exist in an undead state, constantly tethered to their mortality, he hoped to control their growth and ensure the Age of Fire remained unchallenged.

It’s important to note that Gwyn’s actions were not necessarily malicious. He genuinely believed he was protecting the world he had created. He saw humanity as a potential destabilizing force, a threat to the delicate balance of his world.

He didn’t want them to reach their full potential, fearing the consequences of their unchecked growth. He may have viewed his actions as a necessary evil, a way to preserve the Age of Fire and ensure its continuation.

Ultimately, the undead curse was a reflection of Gwyn’s fear of the unknown, his desire to control the destiny of his world. It wasn’t just about humanity’s potential strength; it was also about his own power and legacy. By keeping humanity in check, he could maintain his position as the Lord of Cinder and ensure the continuation of the Age of Fire, the world he had built and dedicated his life to.

In the world of Dark Souls, Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, was driven to slay the dragons, not out of hatred, but out of a desire to forge a new world. He believed that the dragons, with their ancient magic and dominion over the world, represented a stagnant, cursed existence. The world was trapped in a cycle of decay, a state of being where life and death, light and dark were all intertwined in a way that prevented true progress.

Gwyn envisioned a world where life and death, light and dark could exist in a more balanced way. He wanted a world that could move forward, not stagnate. To achieve this, he saw the dragons as an obstacle, a source of the curse that held the world back.

The dragons, though powerful and wise, were associated with a primordial, almost primal magic that was, in Gwyn’s eyes, ultimately destructive. They were powerful but had become complacent, content with their dominion over the world, perpetuating the status quo. They were too focused on the past, a past where their power was unchallenged, and they were unwilling to let go of it, even if it meant keeping the world in a perpetual state of decay. Gwyn believed that slaying the dragons was the only way to break free from this curse and create a new world, one where humanity could thrive. This desire for progress, not hatred, drove his actions.

Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, did not destroy the dragons; he overthrew their rule and became king. The Nameless King, his eldest son, chose not to participate in this power grab. He disagreed with his father’s actions, and because of this, Gwyn disowned him. The Nameless King was stripped of his name and title.

This event is a powerful example of the complexities of family relationships, even in the context of a fantastical world. The Nameless King’s rejection of his father’s actions, even though they led to his own disownment, speaks to a sense of strong personal conviction and a deeply held belief in a different way of ruling.

The Nameless King’s decision to abandon his father and reject his lineage is symbolic of a moral struggle – a clash of values and ideals that played out on the grand stage of a dying world. It shows that even in the face of immense power and influence, there are times when individual conscience and personal integrity must take precedence. It also raises questions about the true nature of power – is it something to be seized or something to be earned? How do we navigate the tension between ambition and responsibility?

This conflict between father and son, rooted in their differing visions for the future, deeply impacted the course of events in the world of Dark Souls. Gwyn’s choices, while leading to a temporary sense of stability, ultimately set the stage for the return of the ancient evils, creating a dangerous and challenging legacy for those who followed. The Nameless King’s rejection of this legacy, though ultimately costing him his place within his family, allows him to maintain his own integrity, embracing a path of solitude and self-reliance.

We all know the tragic tale of Lord Gwyn, the great Lord of Light, who ultimately succumbed to the curse of Hollowing. When this happened, a powerful change swept across the land. The Fire of Lords, once a beacon of light and life, became tainted. This corruption birthed the Darksign, a mark of despair and decay that spread throughout the land.

Those who once served Gwyn as loyal knights were now twisted into grotesque parodies of their former selves. Their hearts consumed by Hollowing, they became mindless, driven only by a relentless hunger for destruction. The land was plunged into chaos as these Hollow warriors, their once noble spirits extinguished, turned against everything they once protected.

The Darksign is a powerful curse, a grim reminder of the ever-present threat of Hollowing. It’s not simply a mark of a weakened spirit, it’s a living embodiment of the decay that consumes those who succumb. While it’s true that the Darksign brings madness and violence to those afflicted, it’s important to remember that it’s not a direct result of Gwyn’s Hollowing. Rather, it’s a symptom of the broader corruption that spread from the tainted Fire of Lords.

Imagine a garden where the life-giving sun has been replaced by a dark, malevolent star. This is the essence of Gwyn’s Hollowing. The Fire of Lords, the source of light and life, became poisoned, and the Darksign is like a poisonous weed that spreads throughout the garden, choking out the life and beauty that once thrived.

The Darksign is not only a threat to the physical world but also to the very fabric of the soul. It’s a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the constant struggle against decay. In the end, it is the Darksign that marks the true fall of the Lord of Light, leaving behind a legacy of despair and destruction.

The hero, however, is a beacon of hope, unburdened by the Darksign’s influence. This hero possesses the will and strength to confront the darkness and continue the Age of Fire. The task is immense, but hope remains, thanks to the hero’s resilience and the embers of the Fire of Lords that still flickers.

Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, became hollow after linking the First Flame. He did this to prolong the age of fire, a necessary sacrifice to keep the world from descending into darkness. After linking the flame, Gwyn and his Black Knights guarded the Kiln of the First Flame, keeping watch over the source of the world’s light.

You might be wondering why Gwyn became hollow after linking the flame. The First Flame is a powerful and ancient force, and linking with it is a dangerous process. It’s a bit like a human trying to hold a star in their hand – the power is too much, and it would burn you up! The First Flame’s power is so immense that it can leave a mark on anyone who interacts with it.

There are a couple of reasons why Gwyn became hollow:

The draining effect of the flame: Linking the First Flame is a heavy burden. The endless cycle of linking the flame is a draining task. Imagine yourself standing in front of a campfire for a thousand years. You’d probably get tired, a little worn down, and maybe even a bit lost in your thoughts! The First Flame is a lot like that campfire, and its power leaves its mark on those who link with it.
A symbol of his sacrifice: Gwyn’s hollowing can also be interpreted as a symbol of his sacrifice. He gave up his physical form and his very essence to sustain the world. He became hollow, not just because of the flame’s power, but as a symbol of his willingness to give up everything to protect his people and the world.

In the end, Gwyn’s hollowing is a reminder of the sacrifices he made and the burdens he carried to protect the world from the encroaching darkness. He may be hollow, but his legacy lives on in the Age of Fire. His story reminds us that even the strongest heroes must face their own limits and make difficult choices. In the world of Dark Souls, Gwyn’s hollowing is a testament to his dedication and his unwavering spirit.

In Dark Souls, Gwyn became Hollow after linking the First Flame to prolong the Age of Fire. This act, while necessary to stave off the encroaching darkness, came at a heavy price.

Hollowing in Dark Souls is often interpreted as a loss of purpose. It’s not just about physical decay; it’s about the soul losing its direction and becoming empty. Gwyn, having fulfilled his destiny as the Lord of Sunlight, found himself with no clear path forward. He was a shell of his former self, a hollow echo of the powerful warrior he once was.

It’s important to note that Gwyn wasn’t alone in this fate. Many characters in Dark Souls, especially those who have lived long lives or experienced great tragedy, exhibit signs of Hollowing. This suggests that Hollowing is not necessarily a result of one singular action but rather a consequence of a life lived to its end, a reflection of the natural cycle of existence in the world of Dark Souls.

As the player progresses through the game, they encounter other beings who have succumbed to Hollowing, including the Four Kings, the Witch of Izalith, and even the player character themselves. By understanding the fate of these characters, we gain a deeper understanding of Hollowing as a natural part of the world of Dark Souls. It’s not just a punishment or a curse, but a reflection of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth that permeates every aspect of the game.

Alright, let’s break down how to find Gwyn, the final boss of Dark Souls. You’re going to want to gather the Lord Souls first, and there are four of them.

1. Bed of Chaos
2. The Four Kings
3. Gravelord Nito
4. Seath the Scaleless

Once you have all four Lord Souls, head back to Firelink Shrine and chat with Kingseeker Frampt. He’ll lead you to a hidden area where you can use the Lord Vessel to combine the souls. This unlocks the path to Gwyn’s chamber, where you’ll finally face him in a climactic battle.

Let’s dive deeper into those Lord Souls. Each represents a different aspect of the ancient Lord, and obtaining them is no easy feat.

Bed of Chaos is a monstrous, multi-headed beast found in the depths of the Lost Izalith. This area is filled with dangerous lava and fire-based creatures, so be prepared for a challenging encounter. You’ll need to defeat this chaotic entity to obtain the first Lord Soul.

The Four Kings are a quartet of spectral warriors that guard the New Londo Ruins. This location is shrouded in a perpetual fog and filled with vengeful spirits. Be careful and utilize your stealth skills to your advantage. Defeating these royal guardians will grant you the second Lord Soul.

Gravelord Nito is the first of the Ancient Lords, and his tomb lies deep within the Catacombs of New Londo Ruins. This area is filled with undead and a variety of skeletal enemies. Nito himself is a powerful sorcerer, wielding dark magic and wielding the power of death. Be prepared for a fight against the very concept of decay. Your efforts will be rewarded with the third Lord Soul.

Lastly, Seath the Scaleless, a dragon who betrayed his fellow lords, awaits you in the Crystal Caves. He’s a fierce and powerful opponent, wielding lightning-based attacks and a host of dragon minions. This battle requires careful tactics and well-timed dodging. The fourth and final Lord Soul awaits those who defeat him.

With all four Lord Souls in hand, you’ll have the power to challenge Gwyn himself. He’s the final boss of the game, a formidable warrior with a heavy focus on fire damage. This is the ultimate test of your skills and dedication.

Why is Gwyn Hollow? : r/darksouls – Reddit

Seeing no other choice, Gwyn left Anor Londo and traveled to the Kiln of the First Flame, to link the First Flame, thus prolonging the Age of Fire. When he left, he divided his own soul among his clan and his children, and granted parts to both the Four Kings and Seath, Reddit

Why do we want to kill Lord Gwyn at the end of the game?

When Lord Gwyn went hollow, the Fire of Lords was corrupted, creating the Darksign and turning all who once served Gwyn as Lord of Light into evil parodies of Arqade

Why’d Gwyn go Hollow? : r/darksouls – Reddit

It’s the whole point as to why the protagonist doesn’t go hollow. It’s also clearly shown in DS2 in the case of Lucatiel of Mirrah – she’s goes hollow only after she discovers her Reddit

Gwyn Lord of Cinder | Dark Souls Wiki

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