Weaponsmith Ornifex:

Learn where to find Weaponsmith Ornifex in Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, how to free her, and what services she offers, including boss soul weapon crafting.

Alright, so you're looking for Ornifex, the special blacksmith who can forge those awesome weapons from boss souls, right? She's a bit out of the way at first, but totally worth the effort. Let's get you hooked up with her.

First Encounter: Freeing Ornifex

Your first step is finding Ornifex locked up in the Shaded Woods. Head towards the Shaded Ruins bonfire. You'll want to be careful here, as there are some nasty Basilisk enemies around. Look for a spot with a false floor near these Basilisks. Below that false floor is Ornifex, trapped behind a door. To open it, you'll need the Fang Key. You get this key by using a Fragrant Branch of Yore on a petrified enemy you'll find chilling near the Shaded Ruins bonfire. Once you've used the branch, defeat that enemy to get the key. Now, here's a crucial warning: be extremely careful when you open Ornifex's door. If those Basilisks are still alive and breathing their petrification gas, they can totally kill her before you even get a chance to talk. So, make sure those Basilisks are dealt with before you unlock the door.

After you've freed her and exhausted her dialogue, she'll pack up and head to her workshop. You'll find her next to the Lower Brightstone Cove Bonfire in Brightstone Cove Tseldora.

Second Encounter: Ornifex's Workshop

Once you've rescued her from the Shaded Ruins, Ornifex will set up shop in her usual spot. This is located in Brightstone Cove Tseldora, right next to the Lower Brightstone Cove Bonfire. Specifically, she's in the room just before the massive quicksand pit. You'll know you're in the right place because the room has a small candle in the middle and is decorated with little creepy dolls scattered around.

What Ornifex Offers

Ornifex is pretty much on par with Lenigrast for weapon and armor services. But the real draw? She can craft weapons using Boss Souls. Plus, she'll hook you up with 10 Amber Herbs and 10 Green Blossoms. As a thank you for freeing her, Ornifex offers your first Boss Soul trade completely free. Make sure you use this wisely, because the game won't show you the cost of the weapon during this free transaction, so you might end up trading a valuable soul for something you could have afforded later!

Notes on Ornifex:

• If you decide to take Ornifex out in her shop (not recommended!), you'll get 4200 souls on NG+ and beyond.
• Her grave can be purchased for 11,000 souls if you happen to lose her.