In the hauntingly beautiful world of Elden Ring, forging strong relationships with NPCs is not just an optional path—it can deeply influence your gameplay, unlock exclusive rewards, and uncover hidden lore. One often-overlooked aspect of these relationships is gifting specific Elden Ring items to key characters at the right moment. Through personal trial and exploration, I discovered that the right gift can transform an NPC’s storyline or open new dialogue and quest options.
While many players rely on the Elden Ring item buying marketplace to complete their builds or acquire rare gear, giving in-game items directly to NPCs creates a more immersive and rewarding experience. Here are five of the best item gifts that can strengthen NPC bonds in Elden Ring, based on my own journeys through the Lands Between.
1. Boc the Seamster – Gold Sewing Needle
Boc is a touching example of how small kindnesses create meaningful connections. After you give him the regular Sewing Needle, he starts adjusting basic armor. But to help him grow into his role, gifting the Gold Sewing Needle (found in the Consecrated Snowfield) allows him to alter legendary armor sets.
I vividly remember the first time I gave him the Gold Needle—his joy and gratitude felt sincere, and he became a regular part of my journey. This interaction also unlocked more advanced customization, enhancing both gameplay and emotional payoff.
2. Nepheli Loux – Stormhawk King Ashes
Nepheli’s quest can end in several ways, but one of the best outcomes comes from giving her the Stormhawk King Spirit Ash. This is hidden away in the Chapel of Anticipation and is easily missed. When gifted, it helps restore her confidence and allows her to take her rightful place in Godrick’s throne room.
During my second playthrough, I went out of my way to retrieve the ashes and was rewarded with a more complete, redemptive arc for Nepheli. This item gift not only influences her fate but unlocks her potential as an ally later on.
3. Rya – Daedicar’s Woe
Rya is one of the most tragic yet relatable characters in the game. After she learns the truth about her origins, she becomes deeply conflicted. Giving her Daedicar’s Woe—a talisman found in Volcano Manor—can trigger unique dialogue and allows her story to progress differently.
In my first run, I missed this entirely. On my third, I gave it to her and was surprised by the subtle change in her outlook. These moments remind us that not all power comes from stats—sometimes it’s about making someone feel understood.
4. Brother Corhyn – Golden Order Principia
This prayerbook, located near Erdtree Sanctuary, can be handed over to Brother Corhyn. Doing so grants access to advanced Golden Order incantations and deepens his relationship with Goldmask. More importantly, it furthers their philosophical journey and leads to a unique ending path.
I initially missed this interaction, but once I included it in a faith-based run, it made Corhyn’s character arc feel more complete. The ripple effect also impacted my endgame choices, proving that the right gift can have lasting consequences.
5. Hyetta – Shabriri Grapes and Fingerprint Grape
Hyetta’s transformation into a Finger Maiden hinges on receiving several Shabriri Grapes and, ultimately, the Fingerprint Grape. This gift-driven questline is chilling but rewarding, especially if you're aligned with the Frenzied Flame ending.
Finding these items can be time-consuming, which is why some players turn to the Elden Ring item buying marketplace to save time. However, collecting them myself gave the story more emotional weight—especially as Hyetta’s tone darkened with each grape. Giving her these items unlocks a darker layer of Elden Ring’s lore that’s worth experiencing firsthand.
In a game where battles and exploration often steal the spotlight, it’s easy to overlook the quieter moments of connection. But gifting certain Elden Ring items can turn fleeting encounters into lasting bonds—and sometimes change the outcome of entire quests.
Whether you prefer to farm for items or rely on a reliable Elden Ring item buying marketplace, it’s worth knowing which ones to hold onto for NPCs. These relationships are where Elden Ring shines in its subtle storytelling, and for me, they’ve delivered some of the game’s most unforgettable moments.
Handy Info: 5 Things to Do After Buying Elden Ring Runes
