Hollow Knight: Silksong equips Hornet with a versatile arsenal of Silk Skills, powerful abilities fueled by the precious Silk resource also used for healing. Mastering these skills is key to surviving the dangerous kingdom of Pharloom. Among the most sought-after is the Pale Nails skill, a powerful seeking projectile perfect for pinning down elusive foes.
This guide will provide a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough on how to find the Pale Nails skill, including how to reach its hidden location and strategies for using it effectively in combat.
What is the Pale Nails Silk Skill?
The Pale Nails skill allows Hornet to conjure and launch a volley of three spectral nails that actively seek out the nearest enemy, guaranteeing a hit on most targets. This makes it an invaluable tool for applying pressure to fast-moving or airborne adversaries that are difficult to hit with standard needle attacks.
Important Note: The projectiles will dissipate if their target is defeated or moves completely off-screen, so timing is crucial. It should not be confused with utilities like the Cogflytool, which offers persistent map exploration benefits.
How to Get the Pale Nails Skill
The Pale Nails skill is a late-game upgrade, found in the area where you completed a major story beat.
Location: The skill is located in The Cradle, specifically the arena where you defeated the boss Grand Mother Silk at the conclusion of Act 2.How to Claim It: Return to this boss arena. On top of a central rock, you will find theremains of Grand Mother Silk's hand. Interact with it and choose the "Bind" prompt to permanently acquire the Pale Nails Silk Skill.
Acquiring this skill is also a critical step for completionists, as it is required to unlock the "Woven" achievement.
Step-by-Step: How to Reach The Cradle (Pale Nails Location)
Returning to the boss arena requires precise platforming and a key movement skill. You must have already acquired the Silk Soar ability to perform the high-altitude jumps necessary for this route.
Starting Point: Begin your journey from the Choral Chambers fast travel point. Head to the right-side exit that leads towards the Cog Core.First Ascent: Before entering the Cog Core, carefully inspect the high ceiling inthis chamber. You will spot a narrow, easy-to-miss opening. Use yourSilk Soar ability to ascend through this shaft.Navigate the Ruins: You will emerge in a familiar, devastated area—the remains of theArchitect Melody's room. From here, proceed to the right. You will needto chain several Silk Soar jumps upward where the architecture hascollapsed, navigating toward a hidden passage high on the right wall.The Final Jump: This path will eventually lead you back to the platform where youpreviously battled Lace. Look for a prominent shaft of light fallingfrom above. Use one final, powerful Silk Soar jump straight up throughthis light to arrive back in the Grand Mother Silk boss arena, where the prize awaits.
Pro Tip: While you are in this high-level area, it is highly recommended to complete the "Passing of the Age" questline, as its final objective is located in the same remote region, saving you a return trip later.
Strategic Use of the Pale Nails Skill
While powerful, remember that Silk is a shared resource. Using Pale Nailsdepletes the Silk you need for the crucial Healing skill. Therefore,it's a strategic ability best used aggressively when you are confidentyou can avoid damage or when a high-priority target must be eliminatedquickly. It excels in boss fights and against rooms filled with fast,annoying enemies, allowing you to focus on dodging while your nails seek their mark.
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows PC, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4 PS4, PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Developer(s): Team Cherry
Publisher(s): Team Cherry
Release date: 4 September 2025
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