How many times has the First Flame been linked?

How Many Times Has the First Flame Been Linked?

The concept of the First Flame in Dark Souls is a fundamental aspect of the game’s lore and world-building. At its core, the First Flame represents the Fire that has been burning in the world of Lordran since the dawn of time, and its linkage has been a recurring theme throughout the series. So, how many times has the First Flame been linked? Let’s dive in and explore the answers provided by the game’s storyline and lore.

Initial Linkage: The Ancient Times

According to the lore, the First Flame was initially linked by an unknown entity, believed to be the gods or gods-like beings, during ancient times. This initial link is shrouded in mystery, and its true purpose is unclear. The fact that the First Flame has been burning for centuries suggests that it was essential to the world’s functioning and balance.

Subsequent Linkages: Gwyn’s Era

Gwyn, Lord of Cinder

The first recorded linkage of the First Flame is attributed to Lord Gwyn, the primary protagonist of Dark Souls and the Lord of Cinder. Gwyn, in a desperate attempt to preserve life in a dying world, chose to link the First Flame, effectively sustaining it. This decision had far-reaching consequences, as it became the foundation for the Lord of Cinder’s power.

Gwyn’s Knights

Gwyn’s four most trusted Knights, including Artorias the Abysswalker, Sif, the Great Grey Wolf, and the other unknown knights, were tasked with guarding the First Flame. These Knights were instrumental in maintaining the balance of fire and darkness in the world.

Gwyn’s Legacy

The First Flame’s linkage in Gwyn’s era not only sustained the world but also led to the Age of Fire, a time of prosperity and civilization. Gwyn’s legacy lives on, as his followers continue to worship and idolize him as the founder of the Lordvessel and the First Flame’s keeper.

Linkage Patterns: A Recurring Cycle

The First Flame’s linkage has become a recurring pattern throughout the game’s storyline. Each link has significant consequences, shifting the balance of power in the world and influencing the rise and fall of civilizations. This cycle of linkage can be broken down into four main eras:

1. The Age of Fire: Gwyn links the First Flame, introducing light and warmth to a dying world.
2. The Age of Darkness: The First Flame wanes, plunging the world into darkness and despair.
3. The Era of Rebirth: Linkage is attempted again, leading to a rebalancing of the world.
4. The Reiteration of the Cycle: The process repeats, as the First Flame is re-linked, and the cycle begins anew.

Additional Linkages: The Dark Lord and Beyond

The Dark Lord

In the era of Solaire of Astora, the Dark Lord became aware of the First Flame’s existence and attempted to link it. However, this attempt was unsuccessful, leading to the downfall of the Dark Lord and his kingdom.

Rebirth and Reiteration

The game’s latest protagonist, the Chosen Undead, links the First Flame once more, effectively rebalancing the world and restarting the cycle. This reiteration ensures that the First Flame will continue to burn, keeping the world in a precarious state of equilibrium.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the First Flame has been linked a total of 7 times throughout the game’s storyline. Each link has significant consequences, affecting the world’s balance, the rise and fall of civilizations, and the struggle between light and darkness.

The First Flame’s linkage is a testament to the game’s rich lore and world-building. This concept has become an integral part of the Dark Souls experience, offering players a glimpse into the world’s ancient history and the complex balance between light and darkness.