Players of Hollow Knight: Silksong can unlock a challenging permadeath mode by finishing the game or entering a specific code (Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right) in the Extras menu. Called Steel Soul mode, it’s similar to a normal game, but with one crucial difference: if Hornet dies, you lose all your progress. There are also two other key changes to how the game plays.
So, I found out a couple of things while playing. First, there’s this thing that gets replaced by another one – basically, the first one is only good if you manage to beat Hornet. The other cool discovery is this secret side quest in *Hollow Knight: Silksong* called ‘A Vassal Lost’. You can *only* start it if you’re playing in Steel Soul mode, but it gives you some extra story bits and a super helpful item. Definitely worth the challenge!
How to Start A Vassal Lost in Hollow Knight: Silksong
To begin the “A Vassal Lost” quest in *Silksong*, head to the cave furthest east in the Blasted Steps. You’ll find an NPC named Steel Seer Zi, but you can’t speak to her immediately. You’ll need to strike her to wake her up, which will then allow you to talk to her. Speak with Steel Seer Zi twice to accept her Wish. Remember, this quest is only available while playing *Silksong* in Steel Soul mode.
How to Complete A Vassal Lost
To finish the quest ‘A Vassal Lost,’ you need to check three locations on the map. The first is above the path to Shellwood in Bone Bottom, the second is in the Putrified Ducts east of Fleatopia, and the third is in Far Fields, southeast of Pilgrim’s Rest. Once you’ve made the Wish, all three spots will be marked on your map, and you can visit them in any order. After checking the third location, you’ll be guided back to Bone Bottom, near a hidden cave just west of Bonegrave.

Deep within the cave, players encounter Zi’s Vassal, who is trying to bring a terrifying creature into existence. Hornet interrupts, but not soon enough – players must battle the creature, known as the Summoned Saviour. Fortunately, this boss fight is easier than most in *Silksong*. The main challenge is dodging its projectiles, which cover the area directly in front and below it. As long as players can avoid those attacks, they should be able to win without too much difficulty.
A Vassal Lost Side Quest Rewards

Once you’ve beaten the Summoned Savior, talk to the Vassal again and then head back to Steel Seer Zi in the Blasted Steps. She’ll thank Hornet for her assistance and give her a Growstone. This item gives you Shell Shards when used, but it’s special: unlike other consumables in Silksong, the Growstone will recharge over time, letting you use it again after a while.
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2025-09-18 06:04