Nestled within the blistering realms of the Deep Docks in Hollow Knight: Silksong, lies a clandestine area that rewards only the most adventurous players. This zone is not merely a stroll; it’s a treacherous landscape filled with intricate platforming challenges, explosive foes, glittering treasures, and formidable bosses that will keep you on your toes.
When it comes to bosses, this engagement features a dual showdown; you will face two adversaries, independently yet simultaneously. Each boss presents unique challenges that test your reflexes, agility, and combat skills to the limit.
Preparation and patience are crucial for success in this particular encounter. The bosses are situated far from the nearest bench, which could result in exhausting retries if you aren’t careful. Thus, being well-equipped and mentally ready for the fight is essential.
This guide will walk you through locating this hidden area and its bosses, outline the essential tools you need to equip, and share effective strategies to help you triumph in battle. So, ready your Needle, and let’s dive in!
Locating the Forebrothers Signis and Gron
The encounter with Forebrothers Signis and Gron occurs in the bottom left corner of the Deep Docks, gated behind a door that requires a Simple Key to unlock.
If you haven’t secured a Simple Key yet, you can purchase one from merchants in the Bone Bottom for 500 Rosaries or in Songclave for 650 Rosaries (an unfortunate side effect of inflation).Alternatively, for those seeking a challenge, you can earn a key by defeating a mini-boss on Sinner’s Road or by locating the Bench in the Sands of Karak.
Once you’ve obtained your Simple Key, descend into the underground section of the Deep Docks; this entrance is located on the left side of the chamber where you first faced Tessela (1). As you progress right below the Forge Daughter, keep an eye out for the locked gate (2) where you can use the key.
It’s advisable to explore this area thoroughly, leaving the lower section where the bosses reside for last. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings, the enemies, and the platforming challenges. Be sure to collect valuable items like the Craftmetal (found in a chest), the Spool Fragment, and the Lost Flea along the way.
Upon reaching the left bottom section, you’ll encounter an enemy that appears to roam alone. When he notices you, he will take off and hurl his spear before vanishing — this is Gron, indicating you’re nearing their battle arena.
Continue exploring the left corridor until you finally meet the two bosses (3) in a chamber adorned with background boards.
Optimal Path and Preparation for Forebrothers Signis and Gron
To efficiently travel from a Bench to the boss arena where you’ll confront Forebrothers Signis and Gron, there is a shortcut that might be overlooked by inattentive players. Starting from the main Bench near the Forge Daughter, proceed right, pull the vault lever to descend, and then navigate to the entrance gate where you previously unlocked the Simple Key. Watch out for the lava lake in your path!
Once inside the next room, be mindful of an enemy that can erupt lava, alongside another that’s busy digging. You’ll need to drop between the two sets of horizontal platforms to find a ground hole. Make sure to glide down carefully, avoiding the thorns that fill the hole.
Continue descending until you reach the bottom and head left to find Signis conversing with two of his minions to initiate the confrontation.
In terms of readiness, come prepared with fundamental passive abilities such as the Swift Step (available in Deep Docks) and Drifter’s Cloak (found in Far Fields).Though not strictly necessary, the Faydown Cloak from Mount Fay can significantly ease the fight.
For tools, consider the Fractured Mask (acquired from Mottled Skarr in Hunter’s March), which effectively grants you an additional life, alleviating some pressure during high-stakes moments. A suitable weapon against aerial foes like Gron is any long-range equipment you favor—personally, I recommend the Curveclaw paired with the Pollip Pouch (rewarded through the “Rite of the Pollip” quest).This combo allows for infliction of poison while you concentrate on dodging attacks.
If overwhelmed by enemies, the Cogfly (found in the High Halls) provides excellent crowd control. Lastly, ensure to equip a Crest that favors quick strikes and short-range attacks; the Wanderer’s Crest is a commendable option.
Strategies for Defeating Forebrothers Signis and Gron
Phase 1
The battle begins against one opponent: Signis. He boasts a grounded combat approach with a pair of distinct attacks.
Firstly, he launches a horizontal boomerang-style weapon — a simple jump allows you to evade this projectile. If you position yourself wisely without moving too far away, you can counterattack him once or twice.
Secondly, he may execute a double spear attack, rushing forward. At this moment, either dash away to avoid damage or use the chance to leap onto his head and unleash counterattacks.
While engaging with his moves, be aware that he summons minions. Eliminate these nuisances promptly to streamline the encounter! Fortunately, most minions fall with three strikes, making the Cogfly or your long-distance poison weapons invaluable for this task.
Once you’ve navigated through this phase, prepare for the second boss to enter the fray, raising the stakes considerably.
Phase 2
Gron employs an aerial combat style and also possesses two straightforward attacks that are relatively easy to evade.
In his first attack, he takes to the sky to throw a spear at you — simply jump or dash to avoid this. His second move involves a dive attack, where he strikes the ground before exploding; it’s critical to distance yourself at the moment of the blast but remain close enough to retaliate afterward.
In the two-boss scenario, prioritize focusing your attacks on Signis, as he will have taken considerable damage by this point and can be eliminated with targeted strikes.
Initially, concentrate on evading Gron’s attacks while using a cogfly or your poison weapon for ranged damage, just until Signis is out of the picture. Stay alert as lava begins to descend from the ceiling — position yourself wisely to avoid being caught off guard.
After you’ve laid Signis to rest, shift your attention to Gron. He moves at a more deliberate pace, making his attacks predictable. Maintain a safe distance and keep executing the strategies you’ve practiced!
Rewards for Conquering the Forebrothers Signis and Gron
As is often the case in Hollow Knight: Silksong, defeating the Forebrothers does not yield an immediate reward. However, it unlocks access to the Diving Bell—an essential element for secret Act 3 of the main storyline.
Moreover, you’ll discover a large Bench, a Memory Locket, and a Silkeater, as well as some engaging dialogue with the Forge Daughter upon exiting about her adventures with diving companions, enriching your lore experience.
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