Players will find themselves engrossed in a multitude of mysteries throughout their journey in Elden Ring. As they embark on their quest as the Tarnished, they will encounter formidable opposition and uncover enigmatic secrets within the expansive open world. From the Night of Black Knives to the intricate governing powers of the Lands Between, the Erdtree and the Elden Ring themselves, there is no shortage of intriguing concepts to ponder. Even long after completing the game, fans continue to analyze and dissect these captivating details.
Not only are the players immersed in an intricate narrative, but their companions also undergo significant developments throughout Elden Ring's immersive gameplay. Certain aspects, such as the true nature of the Tarnished's companion Melina, remain shrouded in mystery from start to finish. Although subtle hints provide some clues in various directions, one of the most enigmatic characters players can actually play alongside the main protagonist is the spectral steed known as Torrent. While initially appearing as a straightforward helper, the further players delve into the game, the more profound the mysteries surrounding Torrent's existence become.
Torrent Is Connected To Elden Ring's Most Mysterious People
Initially, Torrent accompanies Melina on her travels and is seen alongside her in a cutscene after the player's first death. Subsequent dialogue suggests that Torrent developed an interest in the player character despite Melina's reservations. When the player rests at a Site of Grace that triggers Melina's appearance, they are given the Spectral Steed Whistle, enabling them to summon Torrent whenever they are outdoors. This appears to be the extent of Torrent's role, and for most players, Torrent becomes little more than a gameplay mechanic.
However, there is a hint of something more if players return to the early Church of Elleh. Ranni the Witch, using the alias Renna, inquires whether the player has been entrusted with the spectral steed. Upon confirmation, Ranni provides the Spirit Calling Bell and the Lone Wolf Ashes. Ranni claims that these items were entrusted to her by Torrent's former master, who is not Melina, as Melina would have given the bell herself. Further interactions with Ranni reveal her secretive nature, suggesting that she would not venture outside her tower without a significant reason. This prompts players to question why their horse is known by important individuals while Elden Ring remains unforthcoming with answers.
Elden Ring's DLC May Be The First Time Players Truly Understand Torrent
Elden Ring's vast lore and extensive menus fail to provide any information about Torrent. The Spectral Steed Whistle is simply described as a "delicate goldwork ring," with no further details about the steed itself. However, speculation arose among players online regarding Torrent's uniqueness. This curiosity was finally addressed when FromSoftware released teaser art for Elden Ring's upcoming expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree. The artwork depicted an unidentified rider on a horned, shaggy horse, resembling the only steed of its kind that players have encountered thus far.
Based on logical assumptions, many believe that the youthful-looking rider is the unfought demigod Miquella. This interpretation aligns with Miquella's association with pure gold and supernatural charm, suggesting his involvement in preparing Torrent for summoning. The exact implications of this connection remain uncertain, but it does offer hope that some lingering questions about Elden Ring and its characters will finally be addressed in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. Fans can look forward to receiving answers they have long been awaiting.
Elden Ring is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.