4. Explore Thoroughly
The Lands Between is filled with hidden secrets, NPCs, and valuable loot. Always:

Check every corner: Caves, catacombs, and ruins hold useful items and bosses.

Talk to NPCs multiple times: They often reveal more lore or Elden Ring Items quests after repeated interactions.

Use your map: Mark tough enemies, merchants, and interesting areas.

Use Torrent (your horse): For fast travel, jumping, and mounted combat.

Exploration often rewards you with Smithing Stones, Ashes of War, and Sacred Tears to upgrade your healing.

5. Upgrade Weapons and Flask Early
Visit Smithing Master Hewg in Roundtable Hold to Elden Ring Items for sale upgrade your weapons. Even basic upgrades (+3 to +6) can massively increase your damage.

Use Smithing Stones (found in mines and world chests) for normal weapons and Somber Smithing Stones for special weapons.

Improve your Flask of Crimson Tears using Golden Seeds (for more charges) and Sacred Tears (for better healing).

Don't forget Ashes of War – they change your weapon's skills and affinities. Experiment to find what suits your build.