Patches the Untethered is a cunning bandit in Elden Ring, infamously known for his appearances in the Dark Souls series. This untethered brigand resides within Murkwater Cave, a small grotto along the river north of Agheel Lake in Limgrave. Tarnished adventurers will encounter Patches if they loot the items within his chamber's chest, triggering a Dungeon Boss battle. Naturally, he can be killed like other NPCs in Elden Ring, but those willing to spare this crafty outcast can initiate the tale of Patches' questline.
It should be noted that with the latest Elden Ring Patch 1.04, Patches' questline has reached its current conclusion. While fans will likely see him again in a future update or expansion, they can progress through and complete his story for a new reward, namely the iconic Patches' Crouch Gesture. Keep in mind that if Patches is slain at any time throughout one's playthrough, they will need to start a NG+ if they wish to reach the conclusion of his tale.
After sparing Patches in Murkwater Cave, Elden Ring Tarnished will learn the Grovel For Mercy Gesture, the first reward unique reward for his questline. Upon reloading the area, he will open "Patches' Emporium," a merchant shop that sells rarities such as Missionary's Cookbook (2) and Margit's Shackle in Elden Ring. If players attack him three times, he will become hostile again. However, during the fight, he will teach the protagonist the Extreme Repentance Gesture. Using this Gesture will reset his hostility and set everything back to normal. Additionally, a new chest will spawn in Patches' chamber that will transport players to the Mistwood Ruins. After returning to his lair in Murkwater Cave, he will teach Tarnished adventurers the Calm Down Gesture.
Completing Patches' Questline In Elden Ring
Next, players can encounter Patches a second and third time in Liurnia and Altus Plateau. These encounters are optional and not required to progress his questline. Yet, suppose Tarnished travelers wish to still see the dialogue and interactions. In that case, they can find Patches at the Scenic Isle northwest of Laskyar Ruins and then on Mt. Gelmir, north of Gelmir Hero's Grave. Nevertheless, the main section of Patches' questline begins once players have spoken with Headmistress Tanith and joined Volcano Manor.
After carrying out the first assassination of Old Knight Istvan, speak with Patches crouched in the foyer of the manor. He will give players a side quest to slay Great Horned Tragoth in the Magma Wyrm Makar's lair of the Ruin-Strewn Precipice. Afterward, he will grant Tarnished the Magma Whip. Next, complete the Volcano Manor questline by slaying Lord Rykard of Blasphemy. Patches will relocate to the Shaded Castle, outside the entrance Elemer of the Briar's boss chamber. Speak with him to receive the Dancer's Castanets. Finally, he will return to Murkwater Cave, where players will face the brigand in battle for the last time. He will quickly recognize the protagonist and end the fight, teaching players the Gesture of Elden Ring 1.04, Patches' Crouch. This event marks the end of Patches' tale.
Elden Ring is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.